The Corpus Christi Independent School District will implement stricter policies and rules regarding communications devices such as cell phones and earphones and headphones for the upcoming school year.

The policy, which went into effect in 2018 and is now being enforced, requires students in grades PK-8 to keep these devices turned off and put away during school hours. For students in grades 9-12, these devices must remain put away during class.

The change was made in response to growing concerns among both teachers and families that mobile phones could significantly interfere with the learning process and hinder the development of healthy social contacts.

“We understand this may be an adjustment for some of our students and families,” said Superintendent Roland Hernandez.

Students who require a phone during school hours may request one from the office. All classrooms throughout CCISD are equipped with phones that have emergency alert systems.

“While we are and will continue to be leaders in integrating technology into the learning process where appropriate, we agree that phones have become a significant distraction during the school day,” Hernandez said. “We are pleased to join other districts across the state and country in setting common-sense limits that we are confident will immediately result in a healthier school environment.”

The guidelines are based on a 2018 directive that allowed schools to follow policies set out in the Student-Parent Handbook, which included consequences such as confiscation.