Mission CISD Implements House Bill 1481 Guidelines on Personal Devices

MISSION, TEXAS (AUGUST 14, 2025) – Mission Consolidated Independent School District (Mission CISD) is implementing the requirements of House Bill 1481, which directs all Texas school districts to limit the use of personal devices during the instructional day. This new law is about more than just rules. It’s designed to help students stay focused and be fully present during school.

 

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW:

  • Students may bring phones and other personal devices to school.
  • Devices must be turned off and stored in backpacks from the start of the school day until dismissal.
  • Devices may only be used before and after school and on the bus.
  • This applies to all campuses and grade levels—elementary through high school.

 

ARE THERE EXCEPTIONS?


Yes. Certain students may be allowed to use devices during the instructional day if:

  • There is a documented need in an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 plan.
  • There is a documented medical need from a qualified physician (licensed to practice in Texas).
  • Device use is part of an established health or safety protocol.

 

WHAT HAPPENS IF A STUDENT BREAKS THE RULES?


Mission CISD is committed to handling discipline with fairness and consistency. Violations will be addressed as follows:

 

  1. First Time – The device is taken and returned to a parent or guardian only after school.
  2. Second Time – Items will be confiscated, and the student will be assigned a maximum of 1 day of ISS. The device will be returned to the parent or guardian only after school.
  3. Third Time – The same or similar items will be confiscated, and the parent or guardian must pay a $15 fee before the item is released after school.
  4. Fourth Time – The same or similar items will be confiscated and kept by the school for 45 calendar days. The device will be returned to the parent or guardian only after school.
  5. Fifth Time – The same or similar items will be confiscated and returned to the parent or guardian only after school. The student will be assigned to DAEP.

 

Refusal to Surrender Device


Refusal to turn over a device when requested by an administrator will result in immediate placement in the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP).

 

Families will be notified each time a device is confiscated. Please note: the district is not responsible for lost or damaged devices once collected.

 

HOW MISSION CISD IS SUPPORTING FAMILIES


To ensure clarity and consistency, the Student Handbook and Code of Conduct are being updated to reflect these changes. Families with questions or concerns should contact their child’s campus directly.

 

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