Killeen ISD Enforces Stricter Cellphone Policy Amid Privacy Concerns

In an effort to maintain campus safety and enforce school regulations, Killeen Independent School District (KISD) has intensified its student search activities, specifically at Harker Heights High School. This measure is part of an ongoing initiative to ensure that students comply with the district’s policies regarding electronic devices.

Assistant Principal Jesus Uranga communicated the new policy to parents and guardians via email in late September. The communication stated, “Beginning Monday, September 30, 2024, it is mandatory that every student place their cell phone, earbuds, and/or smartwatch in their Yondr pouch during the day. Random spot checks for compliance will be conducted.” The email also highlighted that non-compliance with the policy would result in consequences for the students.

The policy has stirred controversy among some parents. One parent, in a communication addressed to Uranga and Principal Jorge Soldevilla, expressed concerns that the procedures constituted a “blatant disregard for student rights,” and indicated that a formal grievance was filed regarding the searches.

Killeen ISD’s Student Code of Conduct asserts that district officials are authorized to conduct searches in accordance with state and federal laws. Moreover, the KISD Board Policy Manual emphasizes that students should be protected from unreasonable searches unless there is established reasonable cause or voluntary consent.

Karen Rudolph, a spokesperson for KISD, explained the district’s position: “Our high schools are utilizing metal detectors and wands upon entering the schools. Additionally, all secondary schools are checking for compliance with our cellphone-free school policies as students enter the building. This is all part of ongoing efforts to maintain a safe and focused learning environment.”

Many parents, including Dina Vega, have voiced their concerns about the searches. Vega reported receiving no response from school officials after emailing Uranga and Soldevilla about her apprehensions. When questioned, KISD Assistant Superintendent Susan Buckley acknowledged that the message to parents could have been better communicated and confirmed that “reasonable suspicion is necessary to perform a search of a student’s person and/or belongings.”

Furthermore, Superintendent Jo Ann Fey emphasized the importance of respecting student rights and mentioned the administration’s efforts to respond to parent concerns and strengthen relationships with students and the community.

As of the recent developments, students at Harker Heights High School were not subjected to searches during their arrival on Monday, a course of action confirmed by Dina Vega. Retrieved information from KISD clarified that students are now required to demonstrate their locked pouches as they enter the school premises each morning.