Mesquite ISD

The school day or instructional day encompasses the first bell of the day to the last bell of the day, including lunch and passing periods. 

Please call the school office, and we will deliver your message. In case of an urgent situation, we will ensure your child receives the information as quickly as possible.

All campuses follow established emergency protocols. During a lockdown or evacuation, students are guided by trained staff. When it is safe to do so, students may be allowed to use their phones to contact families. Parents will also be notified through our emergency notification system.

No. The law only applies during the school day. Students may use their devices after the final bell, including for extracurricular activities or transportation needs.

Yes. The law only applies during the school day. Students may use personal devices before arriving at school and after the final bell, including on the bus.

The legislation specifically defines personal digital communication devices to include:

• Cellphones
• Tablets
• Smartwatches
• Earbuds and headphones
• Radios and paging devices 
• Any other electronic device used to communicate with others

No. Under the new law, students may not use personal laptops, tablets, or other devices during the school day. All instructional technology must be district-issued and monitored. Mesquite ISD provides each student with a device to ensure a consistent and secure learning environment.

Students may access and use their phones after the final bell. The law applies only during the school day, so phones can be turned on once the day is over.

If the phone causes a disruption, even unintentionally, it may be confiscated and treated as a violation.

We understand that personal devices are valuable. If a student’s phone is confiscated, it will be securely stored in the office. Only authorized staff have access, and the phone will remain there until it is returned to the student and/or picked up by a parent or guardian. 

Consequences for Violations:

• 1st time - student can pick it up at the end of the day from the office with no fee
• 2nd time - parent/guardian must pick up from the front office (no fee)
• 3rd time - parent/guardian must pick up from the office and pay $15 fee
• 4th time (and beyond) - parent/guardian must pick up from the office and pay $30 fee, or parent/guardian may pick up the phone at the end of the semester (no fee)

No. Students may not use their phones to contact parents during the school day, even for things like forgotten items or appointments. If a student needs to make a call, they can use the front office phone.

We encourage families to communicate any planned appointments or early checkouts before the school day begins. If an unexpected situation arises, such as an early appointment or a need to pick up your child, the front office will contact the student directly by notifying the classroom.

No. Personal devices may not be used for recording, video, or photo purposes during the school day. Teachers will provide approved alternatives for projects requiring media.

We completely understand wanting to hear from your child when they aren’t feeling well. The nurse will contact you directly if your child needs to go home or if there are any health concerns.

Mesquite ISD recognizes that some students may have medical or accessibility needs that require the use of a personal communication device during the school day. In accordance with state law, exceptions to the district’s cell phone policy will be made for students who:

• Have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or Section 504 Plan that includes the use of a device;
• Have a documented medical need supported by a directive from a qualified physician;
• Require a device to comply with health or safety protocols established by law or district procedures.

If your child meets one of these criteria, please work with your campus administration to ensure the appropriate documentation is on file and any necessary accommodations are clearly outlined. Our goal is to support every student’s well-being while maintaining a focused learning environment.