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Carrizo Springs CISD

Inspiring Lifelong Learners

House Bill 1481

HB 1481 GUIDELINES

 

Prohibited Use:

  • Personal communication devices are prohibited in all areas on campus during the school day including non-academic times/spaces; including but not limited to: locker rooms, cafeterias, hallways, and restrooms. School day is defined as the time when the students arrives on campus to the last bell.

Electronic Communication:

  • Students are prohibited from using personal or school issued devices for any forms of personal communication. This includes the use of devices to text, direct message, or engage in online chat or social media.

Away for the Day

  • Personal devices must be powered off, stored out of sight, and not carried on your person during the school day.

CSCISD Family Support:

  • Speak to your child(ren) about the HB 1481.
  • Promote the importance of student focus on instruction.
  • Parents/caregivers who need to contact their child during the school day must call the campus front office.

We appreciate your understanding and partnership as we implement these state-mandated changes in a way that reflects the needs of our students and staff.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • HB 1481 is a Texas law (effective June 20, 2025) requiring all public school districts and open-enrollment charter schools to adopt a written policy prohibiting students from using personal communication devices while on campus during the school day.

  • The law covers phones (smartphones or flip phones), tablets, smartwatches, radios, pagers, or any electronic tool capable of telecommunication or digital communication.

  • Students are required to store them securely (e.g., lockers/backpacks) during school day-Away for the Day.

  • This law aims to reduce classroom distractions, enhance student focus, protect mental health, and reduce cyberbullying on campus.

  • Parents/caregivers can contact the campus front office if needing to communicate a message to their child in the event of an emergency.

  • Discuss the policy and its reasons—focus, distraction relief, mental health.  Encourage responsible planning: pack all needed items before school.  For students with exceptions (medical/IEP), confirm accommodation with the school before the year starts.

  • The school day is defined as the time when the student arrives on campus to the last school bell.  This INCLUDES breakfast, lunch, transition periods.

  • Yes, they may use their personal communication device after the last school bell.

  • Yes, staff will receive training before the school year starts.

  • Check outs of Chromebook and/or iPad will available as needed at each campus.

  • Updated Parent/Caregiver contact information is imperative as we push out communication via phones, text messages, emails, and the ParentSquare app.

  • One high school’s “bell‐to‐bell” phone ban led to students feeling less anxious and safer, particularly when distractions like social media were removed.
    Education Week Article

    Research shows that removing phones during the school day decreases distractions and increases engagement. In Texas and national case studies, educators report safer, more focused learning spaces after phone bans. Texas Tribune Article

    Schools that implemented full bans saw a significant drop in bullying and social conflict. For example, a Dallas high school experienced a 75% reduction in bullying incidents after restricting phones. Senate Research Center

     

  • Campus principals will be responsible for ensuring that all staff are fully trained on the updated administrative regulations and the adopted CSCISD board policy. TEA House Bill 1481 Guidance

    For questions or concerns regarding implementation at a specific campus, please contact the campus principal directly.

  • CSCISD staff will model the “Away for the Day” expectations alongside students by limiting visible device use during instructional time. However, staff will retain access to their devices throughout the school day to ensure timely communication, safety response, and operational responsibilities.

  • Students with documented accommodations in a current IEP or 504 plan may be allowed to use assistive technology as specified in those plans. 

  • No, If a personal communication device is in the possession of the school, the school will take appropriate efforts to keep the device appropriately stored and free from damage. However, parents should note the school specifically disclaims any liability for devices that are damaged or lost while in the school's possession. Parents will not be compensated for devices that have been in the school's possession in the event those devices are lost, stolen or damaged while in possession of the school. 

  • Please contact your campus principal or assistant principal. They can answer questions about the policy, your student's behavior records, or how accommodations are handled.

  • After arriving on campus, personal devices must remain "Away for the Day" = off and out of sight from entry to campus to last bell.
    This includes:

    • Class Time
    • Lunch Time
    • Transition Time
    • Hallways and passing periods

  • Refusing to surrender a device is considered defiance and a violation of the Student Code of Conduct. An administrator will intervene, and additional disciplinary action may be taken, including suspension or placement in an alternative education placement.