Central Office
Cellphone & Personal Digital Device Policy
Reason for Policy
Harmony Public Schools values a safe and distraction-free learning environment. In accordance with Texas House Bill 1481, passed during the 89th Texas Legislative Session in 2025, all Texas public schools will implement a strict “No Personal Communication Device” rule during the instructional day.
The following devices are prohibited from use on school property during the instructional day.
The instructional day is defined as follows: From the time a student arrives on campus in the morning until the final period of the day concludes. Lunch and passing periods are included.
Devices must be:
- Turned off and stored away in student locker. (A backpack may be used only if a student does not have an assigned locker.)
- Only Harmony-provided devices are approved for use during class time.
Exceptions only for:
- Approved medical needs
- A documented need based on a directive from a qualified physician
- Special Education needs (as outlined in the student’s IEP or 504 plan)
Exceptions to the Policy
Device use during the school day is only permitted under the following documented circumstances:
- Medical necessity, supported by a written directive from a licensed physician
- Special education accommodations as outlined in the student’s IEP or 504 Plan
Disciplinary Actions
1st Offense
- The device is confiscated.
- A parent/guardian may retrieve the device after school from the front office.
- Both the student and parent/guardian must review the Personal Device Policy and HB 1481
- 1 Reinforcement Point (RP) will be assigned
2nd Offense
- The device is confiscated.
- A parent/guardian may retrieve the device after school the following school day.
- A disciplinary referral will be submitted - Level I disciplinary actions may be assigned.
3rd Offense & More
- The device is confiscated.
Parents/guardians may retrieve the phone after two full school days from the front office. - A disciplinary referral will be submitted
- 1–2 days of In-School Suspension (ISS) may be assigned.
- If more than 3 offenses are committed, Level II disciplinary actions may be applied.
Further violations will result in escalated disciplinary actions in accordance with the HPS Student Code of Conduct. Harmony Public Schools is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged devices that are confiscated due to violations of applicable laws and district policies.
Unclaimed Devices
If a device is not retrieved within 90 days, and after providing written notice to the parent, the school may dispose of it in a reasonable manner.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why is HPS updating its personal communication device policy?
- My child uses their phone to update me on their after-school plans. How will I keep in touch with my child?
- My child has a medical condition that requires monitoring. Can they use their phone for this health reason?
- What happens during a lockdown or safety event?
- Can my child call me in case of an emergency?
- Where should my child’s device be stored?
- Do I have to personally retrieve my child’s personal communication device if it is confiscated during the school day?
- What if a student refuses to hand over a device?
- Is the district responsible for damage or loss of phones?