Weapons Detection Systems and No-Cell Phone Policy at all ROISD Schools

Beginning with the 2025-2026 School Year, Red Oak ISD will enhance school safety with the use of weapon detection systems (metal detectors) on all campuses and at all events. Additionally, the new legislation regarding the prohibition of student cell phones and personal electronic devices during the school day will be enforced beginning on day one.

ROISD students will have designated entry points for the school day to gain access to the campus through monitored weapons detection systems. These devices will scan individual people and their belongings as they walk through the two pillars. Students will remove their district-issued Chromebooks and hold them as they enter. The system will also be supported by manual wanding, if necessary.

Upon arriving on the campus, ALL Red Oak ISD students will be required to store their personal cell phones, tablets, or other devices, including smartwatches, AirPods, headphones, digital glasses, etc., in their backpacks (or storage pouches if the district provides) for the duration of the school day. The large headphones should not be brought to school or must be kept out of sight in a student’s backpack.

House Bill 1481 specifies Texas law, which prohibits student cell phone and device use during the school day and requires the District to implement both the process for individual storage and rules regarding consequences. The ROISD Student Code of Conduct consequences include confiscation and/or other disciplinary action for any personal electronic device.

The goal is to increase student focus in the education setting by reducing distractions. By being Phone-Free in Red Oak ISD, students can connect with people, not screens, and be engaged in instruction.

“ROISD provides education devices for student learning, and we have seen firsthand the negative impact of student access to their personal devices during the school day. While we do understand the parental desire to have communication with their children, we are asking parents to join us in embracing the positive impact of this change in protecting student instructional time and the social well-being of our children as they get a break from their devices during the school day,” stated ROISD Superintendent Brenda Sanford.

“Students will not be allowed to have their devices at any time during the school day on district property, including lunch, passing periods, or class time. If a student or parent needs to reach each other, they will need to contact the campus front office. This will be enforced at all schools at all times during the school day.”

The District is asking parents to speak to their child(ren) about this new law, expectations at school, potential consequences, and the importance of focusing on learning.

Campus staff, except for administrators for official use, will also be prohibited from using personal devices when engaged with students.

In addition to students entering school facilities, the weapon detection systems will be used at the campus visitor entrance throughout the day. All staff and guests entering the campus are required to enter through metal detectors.

In addition, all individuals attending ROISD all athletic, fine arts, other extra-curricular activities, family engagement functions, and special events will be required to pass through the weapon detection system for entry.

Additional information will be coming soon in the ROISD Student Code of Conduct and posted online.