Lamar CISD is committed to providing our students with opportunities to use technology in meaningful and responsible ways. Beginning Wednesday, September 10, we launched a Bring Your Own Laptop (BYOL) Pilot Initiative at the high school level for students enrolled in Advance Placement and/or Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment classes.

This initiative is designed to allow students to use a personal laptop for instructional purposes on campus, while ensuring safety, accountability, and compliance with House Bill 1481.

We know many families may wonder why this opportunity is not available to all students right away. To ensure a successful rollout, we are taking a phase-in approach:

• Phase 1 (Fall 2025): The BYOL Pilot Initiative will begin with 9th–12th grade students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) and Dual Credit/Dual Enrollment courses. These students were selected because their courses often require more independent, technology-integrated work.
• Monitoring & Evaluation: During the fall semester, we will closely monitor implementation, review usage data, and gather feedback from students, staff, and parents.
• Phase 2 (Spring 2026): Based on what we learn in Phase 1, district leadership will determine the details for possibly expanding BYOL access to more students, if applicable. Our intent is to consider growing this program in a way that best supports instruction while keeping classrooms safe and focused.

To keep students safe and on task, the pilot includes:

• Filtered Internet Access: All laptops must connect to the Lamar CISD BYOL network.
• Clear Rules: Students and parents must sign the Acceptable Use Guidelines (AUG), which prohibit personal communication and require laptops to be used strictly for schoolwork.
• Accountability: Misuse will result in consequences under the Student Code of Conduct/Student Handbook, including loss of BYOL privileges.

The BYOL Pilot Initiative represents a step forward in how we integrate technology into teaching and learning while still complying with HB 1481. By starting small and scaling responsibly, we are ensuring this program supports instruction, complies with state requirements, and maintains a safe, secure learning environment.

We will keep all families informed as we evaluate the pilot and prepare for the next phase. Thank you for supporting Lamar CISD as we continue to expand opportunities for our students.