Texas Schools Navigate New Cell Phone Restrictions Creatively

The new law banning cell phones in Texas classrooms certainly riled up all of the students and parents. Not surprisingly, finding a way around it didn't take long.

Texas House Bill 1481 banned the use of cell phones, smart watches, earbuds and other electronics n Texas classrooms between the first bell of the day and the last.

Guess what? This is Texas and at least one school in the fiercely independent lone star state has already found a way around the new law.

According to the San Antonio Express News, 2 San Antonio districts simply redefined the school day as "the time students receive classroom instruction" meaning kids phones are cool during lunch and/or "free" periods.

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Are There Cell Phone Ban Exemptions?

Students with certain medical conditions, needs or emergencies are exempt. Who's exempt, according to the Pediatric Center, depends on each schools policies and a "doctors note" may not be acceptable. Schools are required to have their cell phone policies written and in place by September 18th.

They added that, since they're licensed by Texas, they must follow all state laws and can't try to get around them in any way. They posted a sample letter showing what they could provide on behalf of a student:

Our patient _______________, has been diagnosed with _______________ (a medical condition meeting your school’s specific requirements for an accommodation related to House Bill 1481). We would appreciate whatever you can do to help _______________’s family navigate this new regulation. If you have further questions related to this matter, please feel free to contact our offices.

See the entire form here. I don't know if that would hold up with EPISD but it's a start. Otherwise, maybe you can convince your kids school to define the school day like those in SA did. That buys 'em an hour or two at least ...