TEMPLE, Texas — Temple Independent School District is implementing a revised cell phone policy for Temple High School students for the 2024-2025 academic year.
The updated guidelines aim to minimize distractions during class while allowing students some access to their devices during non-instructional periods.
Under the new policy, students will be required to mute and store their cell phones and wireless earbuds in designated lockers upon entering the classroom. They will retrieve their devices at the end of each class period. Access to cell phones and earbuds will be permitted during passing periods, lunch, and other non-instructional times.
This change comes after a May 2024 survey of Temple High School parents revealed significant concerns regarding cell phone use. The survey indicated that 65% of parents believe cell phones are a distraction in the classroom, while 75% oppose unrestricted access during school hours. Additionally, 80% of parents support allowing phone use outside of instructional time.
Consequences for violating the new policy include a range of disciplinary actions. Students who fail to listen to the policy may face detention, in-school suspension, or out-of-school suspension.
For repeated violations, additional consequences will be determined according to the Student Code of Conduct.
Temple ISD has provided several resources for parents seeking to contact their children during class. In emergencies, parents can call the main campus number or their child’s assistant principal.
During school-wide incidents or drills, cell phone access will be restricted as directed by campus administrators.
For more details, a one-on-one interview with Superintendent Dr. Bobby Ott discussing the new policy will air on Texas Today on August 14 from 4:30 to 7 a.m.