Implementing a Phone-Free Learning Environment with Yondr
We are incredibly excited to announce our partnership with Yondr to implement a phone-free environment for our middle and high school students starting this fall! This initiative is not only in alignment with New York State law, but we firmly believe it will foster a more focused, engaging, and distraction-free learning experience for all.
To support this new policy, we will be providing Yondr pouches to all students in grades 6-12. We are pleased to be working with Yondr, a recognized leader in creating effective phone-free spaces. For students in grades Pre-K through 5, secured lockboxes will be utilized for phones.
Over the coming weeks, we will be sharing comprehensive videos, resources, and other materials to ensure everyone understands the benefits and logistics of this new policy. In the interim, here's a sneak peek at how the Yondr system will work:
Students will place their phones in a Yondr pouch upon arrival at school each day.
The pouch will be magnetically locked, ensuring the phone cannot be accessed during the school day.
Students will retain possession of their phone in the pouch, but will be unable to use it.
Unlocking stations will be available at designated areas for use in case of emergencies or at the end of the school day.
We are confident that this partnership will significantly enhance the learning environment for our students. Stay tuned for more detailed information and demonstrations in the coming weeks.
Click below to see how it works:
Cell Phone Storage for Elementary Students (Pre-K - 5)
While our middle and high school students will be utilizing Yondr pouches, our elementary schools (Grades Pre-K through 5) will be implementing a secure system using lockboxes for cell phones.
Why this approach for elementary students?
Our primary goal is to create the most conducive learning environment possible for our youngest learners. While phone-free schools are a new law in New York State, research consistently shows that minimizing distractions significantly enhances student focus, engagement, and social interaction.
For elementary students, having phones secured during the school day helps:
Promote Focus: Allows students to dedicate their full attention to classroom activities and learning.
Encourage In-Person Interaction: Fosters stronger social skills and face-to-face communication among peers.
Reduce Distractions: Lessens disruptions in the classroom and during unstructured times like recess or lunch.
Ensure Security: Provides a safe and central location for phones, minimizing concerns about loss or damage.
How the Lockbox System Will Work:
Upon arrival at school, students who bring a cell phone will be asked to place it in a designated, secure lockbox.
The phone will remain in this locked box throughout the school day.
Students will be able to retrieve their phones from the lockbox at dismissal.
Important Note on Communication:
We understand that parents may occasionally need to reach their child during the school day, especially in emergencies. Please be assured that our school office remains the primary point of contact for urgent messages to your child. Our office staff will ensure your child receives any necessary communication promptly.
We believe this policy will contribute significantly to a positive, distraction-free, and productive learning environment for all our elementary students. We appreciate your partnership and support in implementing this important change.
More information on our cell phone policy here: https://www.schenectadyschools.org/page/cell-phone-policy-2025-2026