New protocols on student cell phone use take effect in the 2025-26 school year.

 

GHS Parents and Guardians,

Thank you for an incredible year at Godley High School and for trusting us with your kids. Each summer, we reflect on how we can improve, and this year we’re taking a hard look at one of the biggest challenges we face daily—cell phones.

We began studying this issue in the spring and held three parent meetings to share information and hear your thoughts. Many of you also gave feedback through a survey, and we’re grateful for your input. After reviewing national research, other schools’ policies, teacher feedback, and parent voices, we believe it’s time to make a change—not just at the high school, but across all Godley ISD campuses.

Right now, our policy allows teachers to set their own rules, but many are worn out by the constant distractions and discipline issues phones create. Teachers and administrators alike are seeing how phones contribute to problems like bullying, cheating, mental health struggles, and lost instructional time.

Starting in the 2025–2026 school year, all Godley ISD students will be expected to follow a new district-wide cell phone protocol. Students will not be allowed to use cell phones, smartwatches, or headphones during the instructional day—from the first bell to the last.

We understand concerns, especially around communication and emergencies. Please know students can still use school phones, and parents can always contact the office. In fact, research shows that limiting phone use actually makes emergency situations safer and more manageable.

It’s also worth noting that the Texas Legislature just passed a bill restricting student cell phone use during the school day. The bill is now awaiting the governor’s signature, and it reinforces the direction we’re already moving toward here in Godley ISD.

I want what’s best for our students—mentally, emotionally, and academically. This isn’t about taking something away, but about protecting time, focus, and well-being. I’m committed to walking this path with you, and your support means everything.

We’ve posted the full presentation, research links, and a list of next year’s expectations (including dress code updates) on the district website:

Wishing you and your family a joyful and restful summer.

Thank you, and Go Cats!
 

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CELL PHONES & CONNECTED DEVICES

• Cell phones, earbuds, headphones, and smartwatches must be in backpacks or completely out of sight from the first bell to the final bell.
• Use in class is NOT allowed unless approved by school administration for instructional purposes.
• Students are only permitted to use school issued Chromebooks during school hours.
  • Personal devices (laptops, tablets, phones, etc.) are not allowed unless approval has been granted by school administration for specific circumstances.
• STRICTLY PROHIBITED in bathrooms, locker rooms, and back office areas.
• Phones should not be out for any reason during instructional hours.
• Phones may be permitted during special events (e.g., Homecoming, Pep Rallies) with administration approval.

Articles and Research for Reference

2025-2026 GHS Points of Emphasis for Students & Parents

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Godley High School hosted 30-minute presentations on the current climate of cell phone use during the school day. These meetings were on March 20, April 7 and April 15, 2025.  A narrated video of the presentation is below.

For those unable to attend, we are providing this narrated video and the presentation document to all parents and guardians.

Presentation Video narrated by Godley High School principal Kurtis Flood:

Presentation Document: