THRALL — A ban on cellphones and other smart devices took center stage at the Thrall Independent School District’s first board meeting of the academic year as trustees addressed policy changes.
The consent agenda during the Aug. 20 meeting listed potential revisions covering more than five handbooks, charts and manuals for employees, student athletes, bands and even attendance.
“Are there any significant changes people need to be aware of?” trustee Domingo Valdez said.
While the majority of policy changes were minimal, one of the biggest concerns was the recently passed state House Bill 1481, which prohibits students’ usage of cellphones and other smart devices, such as watches and tablets, during school hours.
Prior to the 2025-26 academic year, Thrall elementary and middle schools already had an electronic device ban in place, but the high school did not.
Thrall High School Principal Nicole Tindol said at first she was a little nervous about enforcing the policy, but she and the teachers soon were pleasantly surprised.
“To be honest, it has been amazing,” Tindol said. “The kids have received it so well.”
The principal added pupils have followed the instructions to power down their cellphones and put them away as they walk into class.
She acknowledged they may still be in the honeymoon period since it is early days in the school year, but Tindol is optimistic.
In the cafeteria, Tindol has seen students playing cards and games, as well as talking with each other, instead staring at screens on their devices.
“It’s a little louder (in the cafeteria) perhaps, but it’s because (students) are conversing,” Tindol said.
Changes were also made to Thrall High’s athletic handbook requiring freshmen to participate in two sports.
School board Vice-president Rodrigo Reyes said he had spoken to Athletic Director and head football Coach Aaron Vanicek about the new policy.
“Some freshmen come in wanting to specialize in one particular sport, but Coach Vanicek and the other coaches want the students to try different sports,” Reyes said.
Freshmen are expected to either sign up for two individual sports or one individual and one team sport.
“Just to allow them the chance to try new things…I like that we’re trying to get them involved in more,” Reyes said.
The next board meeting is 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17 at 601 S. Bounds St.
