Since the statewide phone ban took effect, student opinions have been split. Many students appreciate the change, while others strongly oppose it. A new state law bans students from using personal devices at any time between the first and last bell. That includes hallways, lunch periods, and other non-instructional times. The only exceptions are for medical needs or emergencies. It’s a big adjustment for students and teachers alike.
There are several reported benefits to the ban. Students are spending less time being distracted by their phones and are more time focused on schoolwork. Classrooms feel more engaged, and some teachers have reported a drop in students using AI tools, like Chat GPT, to complete assignments. However, the ban isn’t perfect. One major concern is student safety, students might not be able to call for help in emergencies if they do not have access to their phones. If a serious incident were to occur, every second could count, and not being able to reach a phone fast enough may raise problems.
But like it or not, the phone ban is here to stay. The law took effect on June 20, 2025, and school systems must have a written policy in place no later than September 18, 2025—and by the looks of it, there is no plan of the ban lifting in the foreseeable future. Surprisingly, it’s not the disaster many expected. Students are slowly adjusting, and while some still sneak a scroll behind their backpack, the school environment feels more focused than before.
Overall the phone ban seems to be doing more good than harm. While it might take time to fully adjust, the changes have led to fewer distractions, focused students, and better classroom environments. Whether you’re for or against it, this is clear: Texas schools are entering a new era of learning, one without the constant buzz of notifications.
