Standards for Permissible Electronic Devices and Software Applications

Overview

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) is committed to supporting local educational agencies (LEAs) in their efforts to improve safety and security initiatives, including those related to digital services and electronic devices. This To the Administrator Addressed (TAA) provides information related to the Securing Children Online through Parental Empowerment (SCOPE) Act.  

Standards for Permissible Electronic Devices and Software Applications 

House Bill 18 (88R) established Texas Education Code, Section §32.1021 and requires the TEA to provide these Standards for Electronic Devices and Software Applications with which school districts or open-enrollment charter schools are expected to comply. 

Requirements for School Systems 

In accordance with amended Texas Education Code, Section §32.104, before transferring an electronic device to a student, LEAs must: 

1. Adopt rules governing transfers, including provisions for technical assistance to students; 
2. Determine that the transfer serves a public purpose and benefits the district or school; 
3. Remove from the equipment any offensive, confidential, or proprietary information, as determined by the district or school; 
4. Adopt rules establishing programs that promote parents as partners in cybersecurity and online safety, involving parents in students' use of electronic devices; and 
5. For the transfer of electronic devices that are used for educational purposes, install an internet filter that blocks/prohibits obscene materials or applications, including unsolicited pop-ups, installations, and downloads. 

Questions and Resources 

Additional school safety resources are posted on the School Safety webpage.   

For questions regarding this TAA, please contact Shane Sexton (shane.sexton@tea.texas.gov) in the Office of School Safety and Security.