Longview, Texas — As the 2025-26 school year commences, educators in Longview and across Texas are adjusting to significant changes that include teacher pay raises, cell phone restrictions, and new legislation regarding prayer and religious displays in schools.
A recent state law prohibits students from using cell phones during school hours, prompting districts in Longview, Pine Tree, and Spring Hill to enforce policies that require students to store their devices in backpacks from the beginning of the school day. Representative Caroline Fairly, who authored House Bill 1481, aimed to create a distraction-free environment for students. The policy allows exceptions for students with documented medical needs or accommodations from individualized education plans, although any violation of the cell phone rule can result in confiscation of the device.
“This initiative is designed to minimize distractions and curb instances of social media-related bullying,” said Penny Fleet, Superintendent of Spring Hill ISD. “Once students enter the building, their phones should be out of sight, out of mind.”
Another significant change involves the requirement for Texas schools to display posters of the Ten Commandments, provided they are donated and meet size and content guidelines set by Senate Bill 10. While districts await further instructions from the Texas Association of School Boards, superintendents Fleet and Steve Clugston of Pine Tree ISD acknowledge that they are currently in a “wait-and-see” position. The law takes effect on September 1.
Under the new law, posted Ten Commandments must be at least 16 inches by 20 inches and contain only legally permitted language. Schools are not required to purchase these posters but must accept donations that comply with state law. So far, no posters have been donated to Spring Hill, Fleet noted.
Pine Tree ISD, where Clugston serves as superintendent, has emphasized its commitment to compliance with the law, although he expressed concern that political motivations might overshadow the law’s intent. “The politicization of religion can sometimes dilute its true meaning,” Clugston remarked, adding that his district maintains strong partnerships with local churches.
Alongside these developments, Senate Bill 11 allows public schools to designate time for students and staff to pray or read religious texts, ensuring such activities do not disrupt instructional time. Participants must consent, and the law prohibits formal prayers over school speakers when non-consenting students are present. Clugston indicated that Pine Tree ISD already facilitates moments of silence, allowing students to engage in religious activities freely.
All these legislative changes coincide with substantial teacher pay raises resulting from $8.5 billion in increased state funding for public education. In districts with fewer than 5,000 students, teachers with three to four years of experience will receive $4,000 raises, and those with five or more years will see increases of $8,000. Larger districts will provide raises of $2,500 and $5,000, respectively.
In Longview ISD, first-year educators will receive $1,500 hikes, while those with two years will see increases of $1,535. Experienced teachers can expect $2,500 or $5,000 raises based on their tenure. Non-teaching staff will also receive 2% to 3% raises depending on their role, reflecting an overall commitment to improving compensation for all employees.
The Pine Tree district has announced similar increases, with teachers receiving raises ranging from $3,000 to $8,000 based on experience. Clugston remarked on the necessity of supporting lower-paid staff, saying, “Inflation affects everyone. Our lowest-paid employees often feel it the most.”
As these changes unfold, both educational leaders and parents remain vigilant for further guidance on the implications of the new laws. The American Civil Liberties Union has already filed a lawsuit opposing the legislation regarding the Ten Commandments in schools. Longview ISD has yet to provide a public statement on the matter.
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