As CCISD continues planning for the upcoming school year, the district continues to review input from families and staff to help ensure safe and productive environments at all schools.

In response to growing concerns from teachers and families that cellphones are a significant distraction to the learning process and to fostering healthy social connections, the district will have rules in place to minimize the use of phones, smartwatches and other devices.

“While we have been, and will continue to be, a leader in blending technology into the learning process where appropriate, we agree that phones have become a significant distraction during the school day,“ said Superintendent Dr. Roland Hernandez. “We are glad to join other districts around the state and nation in placing reasonable limits we are confident will immediately result in a healthier school environment.”

For students in grades PK-8, communication devices, as well as ear buds and headphones, must remain turned off and put away during the school day, including testing days. The elementary school day is 7:50 a.m. to 3:10 p.m., with middle schools beginning at 8:50 a.m. and ending at 4:10 p.m.

For students in grades 9-12, communication devices, as well as ear buds and headphones, must remain turned off and put away while in the classroom setting, including during testing days. Students will be permitted to use devices between classes and during lunch.

Students needing to use a phone may request to visit the front office. All classrooms are equipped with phones that include emergency alert systems, ensuring assistance can be summoned quickly.

Students accustomed to doing schoolwork on their personal device are reminded district-issued Chromebooks are available.

“We understand this may be an adjustment for some of our students and families,” Hernandez said. “We appreciate everyone’s support as we work, every day, to help our students have the best possible learning environment, which includes minimizing distractions to foster learning and friendships.” The rules are rooted in district policy issued in 2018, which authorizes schools to follow guidelines set forth in the Student Parent Handbook and which authorizes consequences, including confiscation.

Schools will work with students as they become accustomed to the consistent expectation that phones will be put away. If needed, consequences will follow progressive discipline principles, which begin with a reminder warning to follow the rules.

The 2024-2025 school year begins Monday, August 12.

CCISD supports teachers, families with cellphone rules.pdf

Student Parent Handbook - personal communications devices.pdf

Calk-Wilson Elementary School

Corpus Christi ISD strengthens support for teachers, families with 2024-2025 cellphone rules