Cell Phone Policy
Cell Phones & Personal Communications Devices Prohibited
TEXAS HOUSE BILL 1481
New Texas Law on Student Personal Electronic Devices
During the 2025 legislative session, Texas lawmakers passed House Bill 1481, which requires all public school districts in Texas to prohibit students from using personal communication devices while on school property during the school day. The bill was signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott.
In compliance with House Bill 1481, effective for all students at Ropes Independent School District during the 2025–2026 school year, students are prohibited from using personal electronic devices during the school day. HB 1481 is designed to minimize distractions and enhance student focus and safety. Your cooperation is essential in supporting a productive learning environment.
The school day is defined as the time from the first bell to the final bell of the day.
Personal electronic devices include, but are not limited to:
- Telephones
- Cell phones (such as smartphones or flip phones)
- Tablets
- Earbuds and earphones
- Smartwatches
- Gaming devices, radios, texting devices, and pagers
- Smart glasses
- Any other device capable of telecommunications or digital communication
Note: Electronic devices provided to students by the school district or campus are permitted.
School Rules:
Starting the first day of class for the 2025-2026 school year, Ropes ISD students are not allowed to use personally owned communication devices during the school day while on school property. Students are allowed to bring devices to school, but they must be stored away.
The district provides storage areas, including campus offices and lockers. Students are required to provide their own locks for lockers.
The law provides for limited exceptions for students who have a documented need based on:
- A directive from a qualified physician
- An accommodation in a 504 plan
- An Individualized Education Program (IEP)
Families should coordinate with the school nurse or the Special Services Department to discuss any of these exceptions.
Ropes ISD remains committed to supporting appropriate technology use in the instructional and learning environment.
Disciplinary Actions
The law requires school districts to create disciplinary consequences for students who violate the prohibition of using personal communication devices at school. The following actions are in place in Ropes ISD.
- Devices will be confiscated if used or visible during the school day.
- Confiscated items will be held in the student’s designated campus office and must be picked up by a parent or guardian after the school day concludes.
- Pick-up times: 7:45 AM - 4:15 PM
- Students who refuse to surrender their device when instructed to do so will receive two days of out-of-school suspension.
HB 1841: What Families Need to Know (Flyer)