Texas students are navigating unfamiliar ground this year, roaming hallways without their constant companion — the cellphone — after House Bill 1481 passed this year.

Texting friends in class, doomscrolling on social media, checking in with parents, and ordering lunch are no longer part of students’ daily routine.

For some students, the phone ban is less of a disruption than expected. For others, it’s a daily test of patience and separation.

One of students’ biggest concerns is the loss of music, with many saying they can no longer concentrate in class. What began as a statewide restriction has turned into a retro revival, as some students have turned to 1980s Walkmans to bring music back into the classroom.

Senior Draven Covarrubia set the stage with a cassette player he customized and appropriately fitted with 80s music. Though the player was originally a way to listen to music in class, he continues to curate his playlist at home.

“I just thought why not,” Covarrubia said.”I got it for five bucks.”

Another change in student’s electronic routine is the inability to capture memories or fun moments throughout the day, with challenges every Friday — wake-up calls and pep rallies.

With many changes to adjust to, students are left wondering what law was implemented in the first place.

The phone ban, House Bill 1481, was signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott after concerns about cellphones in classrooms. Supporters stated cellular devices are a persistent distraction during instructional time.

The bill gives school districts the authority to set their own rules for students. Some require students to turn in their phones, which are returned at the end of the instructional school day. DHS, however, allows students to use their devices before the first bell, after which they must be powered off and stored in a backpack.

Reception has been mixed, with some supporting the change and others indifferent to it. Theatre teacher Patricia Taitano said she welcomes the phone ban and the impact she’s seen on students.

“I absolutely love the phone ban. I have seen an enormous difference in student interaction,” Taitano said. “My students have been turning in their work on time, and my classroom has had no problems. We should’ve done it years ago.”

History teacher Tammy Bishop says she does not have a problem with the phone ban.

“Students can use my phone whenever they need to, and it has been easier for me to manage,” Bishop said. “I don’t see a problem with it at lunch however.”

Though the policy changes came quickly, students are gradually adjusting to their new, less online routine.