Texas Schools Implement New Rules: Cell Phone Bans, Ten Commandments, DEI Prohibitions

New School Year, New State Laws in Texas

• 📱 Starting September 1st, a statewide cell phone ban in classrooms goes into effect across Texas.
• 🏫 Some districts are already enforcing this ban, which applies to everyone.

Classroom Content and Diversity Initiatives

• 📜 New state law mandates that The Ten Commandments be displayed in every classroom, a measure currently being challenged by the ACLU.
• 🚫 DEI programs in K-12 public schools are now banned, which includes prohibiting school-sponsored LGBTQ student groups.
• 📚 Parents and school boards will have increased authority over which books are available on library shelves.

School Accountability and District Oversight

• 📊 Some Texas school districts, like Fort Worth ISD, may receive new accountability ratings from the Texas Education Agency and could face a state takeover.
• 🤝 The TEA commissioner is working closely with district leaders to determine the next steps for these districts.

Preparing Families for Back to School

• 📰 This week, WFAA is providing stories to help families prepare for the school year, covering topics such as stress reduction, safety protocols, and new classroom laws.
• 📺 Families can tune into Daybreak starting at 5:00 a.m. or catch it from 7:00 to 9:00 a.m. on WFAA Plus for updates.