Telecommunication Device Policy

In accordance with Texas House Bill 1481 Premier High School Austin Wells Branch will be adhering to the below cell phone policy. This legislation aims to reduce distractions, safeguard student privacy, and enhance the overall learning environment.

Starting with the 2025-2026 school year, a new Texas law (Texas HB 1481) mandates that school districts limit student use of personal communication devices during the school day. In compliance with this law, Premier High School Austin Wells Branch will require all students to store their cell phones in a secure box in the front office. Personal devices will no longer be allowed in the Learning Center. Exceptions include if needed by a teacher for learning purposes or if a student has it in their IEP or 504 plan. 

What is a Personal Communication Device?

• cell phones

• tablets/iPad
• smartwatches
• radio devices
• paging devices
• or any other electronic devices "capable of telecommunication or digital communication"
• School chromebooks are to be used for school related assignments.

Premier High School Austin Wells Branch Policy (Effective August 2025, first day of school)

• Devices MUST be stored away securely during the school day (front office lock box or backpack/purse to be left in the school lobby)

• Personal device use is NOT allowed during class, CTE passing periods, small group instructional passing periods, during lunch or restrooms.

Exceptions

• A student has an IEP or 504 Plan that requires device access.

• A physician's order is on file for a medical need.

• A school administrator grants permission for safety or legal reasons.

• It is a school-issued device specifically for instruction/learning.