San Antonio, Texas, January 27, 2026
In San Antonio, North East Independent School District (NEISD) has voted to keep its current cellphone policy, allowing usage during non-instructional periods, despite a directive from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for a complete ban. This decision contradicts the TEA’s interpretation of House Bill 1481 which mandates a ‘bell-to-bell’ ban. NEISD faces potential sanctions and legal challenges as it emphasizes parental rights and community input, highlighting the tension between local districts and state authorities over educational policies.
San Antonio, Texas – North East ISD Votes to Maintain Cellphone Policy Amid State Dispute
San Antonio’s North East Independent School District (NEISD) has unanimously voted to uphold its current student cellphone policy, despite the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) directive to implement a complete ban on cellphone use during the school day.
Key Decision
On January 26, 2026, during a special meeting, NEISD trustees decided to retain their existing policy, which permits students to use cellphones during passing periods, lunch, and restroom breaks, but prohibits usage during instructional time. This decision directly contradicts TEA’s interpretation of House Bill 1481, which mandates a “bell-to-bell” ban on student cellphone use during the entire school day.
State’s Response
Following NEISD’s vote, TEA spokesperson Jake Kobersky stated that the agency is reviewing the board’s actions and will determine the appropriate path forward to ensure compliance with state law. The agency had previously placed NEISD under a corrective action plan in November 2025, after determining that the district’s policy violated the new state law. TEA had given NEISD until the end of January 2026 to revise its policy to align with the “bell-to-bell” ban requirement.
Potential Legal Implications
NEISD’s decision raises the possibility of legal action. The district’s attorney, Ricardo Lopez, indicated that litigation could cost between $50,000 and $100,000 if it reaches the appellate court level. Board President David Beyer expressed concerns about the financial implications of a legal battle but emphasized the importance of policies that benefit students and families. He also noted the lack of information provided by TEA regarding the specific aspects of NEISD’s policy that are not in line with the law.
Background Context
In June 2025, Texas enacted House Bill 1481, requiring school districts to implement policies prohibiting students from using personal wireless communication devices during instructional time. While many districts, including Alamo Heights ISD, have adopted a full “bell-to-bell” ban, NEISD chose to allow cellphone use during non-instructional periods, citing community input and the desire to maintain communication between students and parents. This approach has led to a standoff with TEA, which insists on a complete ban to comply with the new state law.
Community and Trustee Perspectives
During the board meeting, several trustees criticized TEA’s stance, describing it as a “blatant abuse of power” and expressing concerns about the agency’s approach to local control. Trustee Diane Sciba Villarreal emphasized the importance of parental rights and questioned the state’s interpretation of the law. Trustee Tracie Shelton expressed worries about setting students and families up to be dishonest, highlighting the district’s efforts to work with the community and gather input on the policy.
Next Steps
As NEISD continues to uphold its policy, the district faces potential state sanctions, including increased oversight or the appointment of a conservator with the authority to override decisions made by the school board and superintendent. The situation underscores the ongoing debate between local school districts and state authorities over the interpretation and implementation of education policies in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the current cellphone policy of North East ISD?
NEISD’s policy allows students to use cellphones during passing periods, lunch, and restroom breaks, but prohibits usage during instructional time.
What does House Bill 1481 require?
House Bill 1481 mandates that school districts implement policies prohibiting students from using personal wireless communication devices during instructional time, effectively requiring a “bell-to-bell” ban on cellphone use during the entire school day.
What is TEA’s stance on NEISD’s policy?
TEA has determined that NEISD’s policy violates the new state law and has placed the district under a corrective action plan, requiring compliance with the “bell-to-bell” ban by the end of January 2026.
What are the potential consequences for NEISD’s decision?
NEISD faces potential state sanctions, including increased oversight or the appointment of a conservator with the authority to override decisions made by the school board and superintendent.
How has the community responded to NEISD’s policy?
Community members and trustees have expressed support for the district’s policy, emphasizing parental rights and questioning the state’s interpretation of the law. Some trustees have criticized TEA’s stance as a “blatant abuse of power” and expressed concerns about local control.
Key Features of NEISD’s Cellphone Policy Situation
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Policy Decision | NEISD voted unanimously to maintain its current cellphone policy, allowing usage during non-instructional periods. |
| State Directive | TEA requires a “bell-to-bell” ban on student cellphone use during the entire school day, as per House Bill 1481. |
| Legal Implications | Potential legal action could cost NEISD between $50,000 and $100,000 if it reaches the appellate court level. |
| Community Response | Trustees and community members have criticized TEA’s stance, emphasizing parental rights and questioning the state’s interpretation of the law. |
| Potential Sanctions | NEISD faces potential state sanctions, including increased oversight or the appointment of a conservator with the authority to override decisions made by the school board and superintendent. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
SAISD Implements Comprehensive Cellphone Ban in Schools
New Cellphone Policy Implemented by San Antonio Schools
SAISD Implements Strict Cellphone Ban in Schools
San Antonio Schools Implement New Cellphone Ban
San Antonio Schools Prepare for New Academic Year
San Antonio School District Enforces New Cellphone Policy
Texas Passes Law to Ban Cell Phones in Schools
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
