Arkansas, Texas Enact Widespread K-12 Education Policy Changes

In the 2025-2026 school year, both Texas and Arkansas are implementing significant new education laws affecting students. Texas has introduced a comprehensive ban on cell phone use during school hours on campus, requiring districts to securely store devices to reduce distractions and mental health concerns, alongside a law mandating the display of the Ten Commandments in classrooms, which has sparked controversy and mixed district responses. Similarly, Arkansas has enacted a statewide ban on student cell phone use during school hours and expanded the school lunch program to offer free breakfast to all public school students, funded by medical marijuana taxes. Arkansas lawmakers also passed sweeping education reforms, including the Religious Rights at Public Schools Act allowing religious expression, mandated antisemitism training, and restrictions on excused absences for political protests, while a federal injunction currently blocks enforcement of the Ten Commandments display law. The state’s LEARNS Act continues to roll out, raising minimum teacher salaries, enforcing third-grade reading standards, and introducing the Arkansas ACCESS Act to enhance college access by expanding dual-credit options, doubling scholarship amounts, and streamlining college admissions. These legislative changes reflect a broader trend toward tighter regulation of technology use, increased religious presence in schools, and expanded educational opportunities, all amid ongoing debates about implementation and constitutional challenges.