Pampa, TX – In compliance with Texas House Bill 1481, Pampa Independent School District will implement a new policy restricting student use of personal communication devices during the school day, effective Monday, August 19, 2025.
The law, passed during the 89th Texas Legislative Session, aims to minimize distractions in the classroom and promote a more focused learning environment. Pampa ISD is among many districts across the state working to align with the new legislation.
Under the new policy, students are prohibited from using any personal communication devices inside school buildings during the instructional day. The school day is defined as the time from when a student enters the building until the dismissal bell rings.
Devices that fall under this restriction include:
Smartphones
Personal laptops and tablets
Smartwatches
Earbuds and earphones
Smart eyeglasses
Portable gaming devices
Emergency Exceptions and Enforcement
In the event of an emergency, students will follow directions provided by trained staff. Once it is deemed safe, students may be allowed to use their personal devices to communicate with family. Pampa ISD will also provide updates through its official communication platforms.
Students who forget a device in their pocket will not face consequences as long as the device is powered off and remains out of sight. However, if a device rings, vibrates, or becomes visible during the day, it may be considered a violation of the policy and could be confiscated, even if the disruption is unintentional.
“We understand how important these devices are to our students and their families,” said district officials. “Any confiscated device will be stored in a secure location at the campus front office and can be picked up by a parent or guardian. Only authorized personnel will have access.”
The district encourages all parents and guardians to discuss this policy with their students ahead of the school year. More information, including frequently asked questions, is available at www.pampaisd.net.
Pampa ISD remains committed to supporting a safe and focused learning environment for all students.
