DENISON
HIGH SCHOOL
Campus Safety & Security
Security
Safety & Security Information
- Personal Device Use Policy
- Clear Bag Policy
- Providing Safe & Secure Schools
- Visitor Management System
- Campus Security Plan
- Surveillance Cameras
- DISD Faculty & Staff Training
- Emergency Contact Information
- Student & Community Involvement
- Inclement Weather Procedures
- Emergency Notification System
- Sexting
- Safe Firearm Storage Resources
Personal Device Use Policy
ABOUT THE POLICY
Texas House Bill 1481 requires school districts to adopt a policy prohibiting student use of personal communication devices during the school day and to establish disciplinary measures for violations. Beginning August 13, 2025, Denison ISD students will not be permitted to use personal communication devices from doors opening to the end of the instructional day, including passing periods and lunches.
This non-exhaustive list includes cellphones, smartphones, flip phones, tablets, smartwatches, personal laptops, radio devices and anything that can transmit messages such as earbuds, Bluetooth headphones, Meta glasses and paging devices. The only communication devices allowed for students to use during the school day are District-provided devices. Students are encouraged to leave personal communication devices at home.
If a student brings a personal communication device to school, it must be turned off, and stored in the student’s backpack, from doors opening to the end of the instructional day. If a personal communication device is visible, used and/or sounds/vibrates during the instructional day, then the device will be confiscated.
Parents will still be able to reach their children, but it will look different since students cannot receive texts or calls during the school day. For critical messages, parents can call the office and the campus will deliver the message.
Please make sure guardian contact information is up to date with Denison ISD since students will not be able to look up phone numbers midday on their phone.
We encourage families to communicate planned appointments or early checkouts before the school day begins. If an unexpected situation arises, such as an early appointment or a need to pick up your child, the front office will contact the student directly by notifying the classroom.
Consequences
The consequences will be included in the Student Code of Conduct upon Board approval.
Questions
Do Chromebooks have headphone jacks?
Yes, District-provided Chromebooks do have headphone jacks. Participate in the 1:1 program that provides each secondary student a Chromebook to take home.
Can my student use Bluetooth headphones that also can be plugged in with a wire into a headphone jack or does that violate the new law?
No. Bluetooth headphones would violate House Bill 1481 because a student can use them to communicate. The intent behind House Bill 1481 is to limit distractions in the classroom and across campus so students can stay focused on learning.
Students and parents frequently receive communication throughout the day from Athletics and Fine Arts. Will this practice be updated?
Yes, Denison ISD is currently evaluating practices to ensure compliance with House Bill 1481.
What about on buses?
Before and after school, students can use their devices. House Bill 1481 does not permit use during the school day including any busing that happens midday between campuses or events.
What about lunch and passing periods?
House Bill 1481 does not permit use during the school day, including lunch and passing periods.
What happens to my child’s personal communication device during confiscation?
DISD recommends students leave devices at home. If a student brings a device to school, it must be properly stored during the day. By sending the device with your child, you assume liability for loss, damage or theft of that digital device. Devices confiscated for rule violations will be securely stored and returned according to the Student Code of Conduct.
What if there’s a school emergency?
Parents will also be notified through our emergency notification system which can include text, phone and calls. In accordance with established protocols and when it is safe to do so, students may be allowed to use their personal communication devices to contact families.
Will this law apply to before and after-school activities?
No. The law only applies during the school day.
Can students still use a personal laptop instead of a District-issued Chromebook?
No. Under House Bill 1481, students may no longer use personal laptops, tablets or other devices during the school day. Participate in the 1:1 program that provides each secondary student a Chromebook to take home.
Can my student take their phone with them to the restroom “just in case”?
No. House Bill 1481 does not allow devices to leave storage at any point of the school day.
What if my student walks home and needs their device for safety?
Students may access and use their personal communication devices after the final bell. House Bill 1481 applies only during the school day.
What happens if my student has it in their backpack?
If the device remains off and unseen, there is no issue. However, if it becomes visible, makes noise or is accessed in any way, it is a violation of the Student Code of Conduct.
What happens if it rings or vibrates from within the backpack during school?
The intent behind House Bill 1481 is to limit distractions in the classroom and across campus so students can stay focused on learning. If the phone causes a disruption, even unintentionally, it may be confiscated and treated as a violation of House Bill 1481. Devices should be completely powered off and silenced during the school day.
Can my child hold it in their pocket or hoodie?
No, the only approved storage location in Denison ISD is a backpack or satchel.
What if my student forgets something at home or has an appointment?
House Bill 1481 does not make allowances for students to contact parents with their personal communication device during the school day, even for things like forgotten items or appointments. If a student needs to make a call, they can use the front office phone.
Can my student use their device as part of a lesson such as to take pictures or video?
No. House Bill 1481 does not make allowances for students’ personal devices to be used for recording, video or photo purposes during the school day. Teachers will provide approved alternatives for projects requiring media.
What if my student has anxiety and checking their phone helps them calm down?
We understand that some students use their phones as a coping mechanism, but under House Bill 1481, personal device use is not permitted during the school day. If your child is experiencing anxiety that affects their ability to focus or stay regulated at school, please reach out to the campus counselor. We have support systems in place to help students manage these challenges without relying on personal devices.
What if my student has an early release?
Once a student’s school day has concluded, they may use their personal devices.
Can my child use it in the nurse’s office?
No, there is a phone they can use in the office to make calls.
Clear Bag Policy
The Denison ISD Clear Bag Policy, in conjunction with Denison ISD Board of Trustees policy, and University Interscholastic League (UIL) guidelines, applies to all events and activities held at Denison ISD facilities including athletic events and other ticketed events. All bags are subject to search. Exceptions to this policy may be made by Denison ISD Administration prior to the event date for medically-necessary items. For events held at all Denison ISD facilities, patrons are subject to a security check at the gate upon entry, and a strict no re-entry policy will be enforced. CLICK HERE to view the complete policy.
Providing Safe & Secure Schools
A safe and secure environment is necessary for DISD students to learn, grow and reach their academic potential, for staff to function at an exemplary level, and for parents to be an active part of their children’s education. DISD takes its responsibility in this area very seriously and is committed to providing a safe and secure environment. The district Emergency Operations Plan provides instructions, responses and resources to be used in case of emergencies caused by nature or emergencies generated by humans. The plan, as well as campus security plans, is reviewed routinely. Practices/procedures are updated as necessary according to the most current Emergency Operation procedures. The DISD family also relies on student, parent and community support to help keep our schools safe.
Visitor Management System
Denison ISD uses the Raptor Visitor Management System in our school(s). Raptor is used to track visitors, volunteers and vendors who come into our schools. Computer kiosks are installed on all campuses at the main entrances for visitors to sign-in electronically. All visitors are required to sign-in to the building via Raptor. Visitors will be required to scan their drivers license as part of this process. Following the sign-in process a visitor badge will be printed and must be worn at all times while on school property. The badge is self-adhesive and will not damage clothing. Prior to leaving the school all visitors must sign-out out using the Raptor system. Front office staff will be available to answer questions and provide assistance as needed.
Campus Security Plan
A school safety team on each campus develops and maintains a campus security plan. These plans address and implement emergency drills, lock down procedures, bad weather procedures, student arrival and dismissal procedures, classroom and exterior door locking procedures, and encouraging students to report anything they see that may be harmful to themselves or others. The district and campuses work closely with the Denison Police and Fire Departments which are available for training, support and, of course, protection of our students.
Surveillance Cameras
DISD Faculty & Staff Training
All DISD faculty and staff train annually in order to be ready to react correctly to emergency situations. In turn, teachers also train their students to react to emergency situations. These training sessions are intended to give students and staff the best opportunity of remaining safe during emergency situations.
Emergency Contact Information
Should an immediate emergency situation arise on a campus, parents/guardians will be notified via the ParentSquare mass calling system. In order to be appropriately notified, parents and guardians must ensure that Denison ISD has current and accurate contact information on all students. Parents may also be notified by viewing the scrolling alert at the top of the Denison ISD website.
Student & Community Involvement
It is important to know that the Denison ISD administration and staff work to make schools safe and caring places. We strongly encourage and frequently remind students to report any safety concerns directly to a trusted adult at home or at school. Still, we know that when students become aware of unsafe people or situations, it can be very difficult for some to report as they are fearful or feel pressure from others to keep things secret. We want students to help us keep their schools safe, and to break any “code of silence” if one exists, with respect to matters that can impact the safety of their schools.
If you or your student were to suspect or become aware of any students or adults in a school who are planning or acting in any unsafe way, please let us know. This includes, but is not limited to, the use or possession of drugs, knives, guns, and/or threats to injure, bully, or assault others. If you or your students are not comfortable talking directly with staff at the school level, use the DENISON ISD SAFE SCHOOLS QUICK TIP FORM is available online 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. “Tips” will be referred to school or law enforcement authorities as deemed appropriate.
Inclement Weather Procedures
Ensuring the safety of our Yellow Jacket students and staff is our main priority during a weather event. Denison ISD monitors the National Weather Service and local meteorologist forecasts before making decisions to close, dismiss early or delay school.
Factors considered before making a weather-related decision about school include:
- road conditions, temperatures
- the presence of snow, ice, and sleet
- bus route rider and driver safety
- teen driver safety
- sidewalk and parking lot conditions
- staff driver safety
- the conditions of our facilities District
The Denison ISD website is the OFFICIAL notification location regarding inclement weather cancellations or delays. In the event that the district closes, dismisses early or delays school for weather-related issues, local television and radio stations will be notified by the district. Campus Facebook pages and district Twitter (Denison ISD @denisonISD or DISD Communications @DISD_PR_COMM) accounts may also be utilized forms of communication for Denison ISD. Social media is a great way to connect and interact with our students online.
Texas School Safety Center Winter Storm Definitions
Freezing Rain – Freezing rain occurs when snowflakes descend into a warmer layer of air and melt completely. When these liquid water drops fall through another thin layer of freezing air just above the surface, they don't have enough time to refreeze before reaching the ground. Because they are “supercooled,” they instantly refreeze upon contact with anything that is at or below 0 degrees Celsius, creating a glaze of ice on the ground, trees, power lines, or other objects. A significant accumulation of freezing rain lasting several hours or more is called an ice storm.
Ice Storm – A storm that results in the accumulation of at least 0.25” of ice on exposed surfaces. The conditions related to an ice storm can create hazardous driving and walking conditions. Tree branches and powerlines can easily snap under the weight of the ice.
Sleet – Sleet occurs when snowflakes only partially melt as they fall through a shallow layer of warm air. These slushy drops refreeze as they next fall through a deep layer of freezing air above the surface and eventually reach the ground as frozen raindrops.
Snow – Most precipitation that forms in wintertime clouds starts out as snow because the top layer of the storm is usually cold enough to create snowflakes. Snowflakes are collections of ice crystals that cling to each other as they fall toward the ground. Precipitation continues to fall as snow when the temperature remains at or below 0 degrees Celsius from the cloud base to the ground.
Wind Chill – Wind chill is the term used to describe the rate of heat loss from the human body resulting from the combined effect of low temperature and wind. As winds increase, heat is carried away from the body at a faster rate, driving down both the skin temperature and eventually the internal body temperature.
Winter Storm – A winter storm is a combination of heavy snow, blowing snow, sleet, freezing rain, and/or dangerous wind chills. A winter storm can be life-threatening according to the National Weather Service.
Winter Storm Warning – Issued when a combination of hazardous winter weather in the form of heavy snow, heavy freezing rain, or heavy sleet is imminent or occurring.
Emergency Notification System
All campus emergency notifications, as well as weather-related school closings and delays, will be communicated to employees and parents via the district's ParentSquare emergency telephone notification system. The system can call ALL the emergency contact numbers simultaneously. NOTE: please be sure that your contact information is up-to-date in Denison ISD parent/guardian records. The district uses emergency contact information provided by parents for the emergency notification system. Staff and student information is updated regularly to ensure accurate communications. In addition to a phone call, staff should also receive a corresponding written email message.
NOTE:
DISD cannot be responsible for any information communicated through sources not approved by the district. Please refer to the DISD approved information sources mentioned above to verify any information being communicated through non-approved sources, including social media.
Questions about district weather-related procedures may be directed to the Denison ISD Communications office at 903-462-7027.
Sexting
Sexting is the sending, receiving, or forwarding of sexually explicit messages or images, which occurs through text message, video, social media applications, email, webcam, or other avenues via the internet. Concerns regarding sexting began to emerge in the last decade as media and research began highlighting the possible long-term consequences.
Visit the Texas School Safety Center website and see the Parent's Guide to Sexting
Safe Firearm Storage Resources
House Bill 3, Section 19 (88th Texas Legislature) requires the Texas School Safety Center, in collaboration with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), to provide to each school district and open-enrollment charter school information and other resources regarding the safe storage of firearms, including information on section 46.13 of the Texas Penal Code, for distribution by the district or school.
The Texas DPS has created a public relations campaign – Keep ’Em Safe Texas – that offers free downloadable resources to promote safe gun storage.
Districts must provide this information to the parent or guardian of each student enrolled in the district or school. The Texas School Safety Center recommends districts provide this information multiple times annually—at the beginning of the school year, before holidays and breaks, and at the end of the school year.
Keep ’Em Safe Texas Resources
In the educator toolkit below, you will find links to resources in English and Spanish to assist districts with meeting this legislative mandate. Districts may select the resources and formats that best fit their needs.
Keep ’Em Safe Texas Educator Toolkit
Parent Letter
The Texas School Safety Center has also prepared a parent cover letter template that districts may adapt to introduce the resources above and provide parents with information on section 46.13 of the Penal Code.
Parent Letter - English: Download here
Parent Letter - Spanish: Download here