RMS Communication Device Guidelines

Ridgeview Middle School

August 12, 2025

Texas House Bill 1481 has passed. 

Purpose of the Law:

  • Promote focused learning environments

  • Reduce distractions in classrooms

  • Promote positive peer interactions

What the law says: 

  • HB 1481- Prohibits use of communication devices during school day (not just during class) with the exception of district issued devices.

  • Students with medical needs or emergencies may be exempt.

  • It allows for districts to establish means of storage for the devices.

  • It gives schools the right to confiscate phones. 

At Ridgeview Middle School, bell-to-bell is from 7:45 when the morning bell rings to direct students to report to their first period class until 3:35 when the dismissal bell rings.

Students' devices must be stored in their backpacks until the dismissal bell rings. It applies to the following devices:

  • Personal cell phones

  • Tablets

  • Gaming devices

  • Smart watches

  • Bluetooth headphones or earbuds

  • Fitness trackers that can send or receive messages

  • Personal (non-district-issued) computers

  • Two-way radios

  • Pagers

  • Any other device capable of digital communication

At 3:35, students may use their personal communication devices. 

Inappropriate use or any disturbance caused by communication devices during the school day will lead to disciplinary consequences for students.

The Cell Phone Guidelines will be enforced the following ways:

  • First Infraction: The teacher will give a reminder to the student to put the communication device away in their backpack.

  • Second Infraction: Device will be turned into the office. Student picks up after school in the office.

  • Third Infraction:  Device will be turned into the office. Parent picks up in the office. 

  • Fourth Infraction:  Device will be turned into the office.Parent picks up in the office.  Student may be required to check cell phone in to the front office at the beginning of the school day. Please note that the office closes at 4:00 pm. 

  • Fifth Infraction:  The teacher will contact an administrator, who will collect the phone.  The student will receive a lunch detention and will lose the ability to attend after-school events as a spectator for the current nine-week period.  

We ask that parents please refrain from calling and texting students during the school day. In the event of an emergency, please contact our main office at 512-424-8400  and we will get the message to your student.

Additional information regarding HB 1418 can be found on the TEA website HERE.