Phone-Free School Day
Tuesday, February 18th is the start of our new Phone-Free School Day. We have been preparing all week by issuing pouches to all students, and holding practice runs to familiarize them with the process.
The basics for entering school are as follows for students:
- Power off your phone before coming to the gate
- Open your pouch at an unlock station (Colfax, Sarah, or Irvine Ramp Gate)
- Place your phone, watch, and Airpods in the pouch
- Lock the pouch and store it safely in your backpack for the day
- Pouches will be unlocked at the end of the day as students exit the campus.
- Students should always keep their pouches locked, even when empty.
If students are found using their cell phone on campus, the phone will be confiscated and will only be returned to a parent or guardian at the end of the school day. Please familiarize yourselves and your students with our new cell phone policies.
Walter Reed Middle School
Yondr Pouch Policy Introduction and FAQ for Students
On February 18, 2025, Reed Middle School will implement the District’s “Phone-Free School Day” through the use of the Yondr pouch system. We understand that this initiative represents a significant change in the typical relationship most students have with their phones, and we want to provide clarity and support as we move forward together.
The primary goal of a phone-free school day is to offer students a unique opportunity to engage with their surroundings, peers, and learning environment in a more focused and meaningful way. By minimizing the distractions and constant connectivity that smartphones often bring, we aim to create an atmosphere that encourages active participation, creativity, and deeper connections both in and out of the classroom. For at least six hours each day, students will be challenged to explore their world without the aid of their devices, fostering skills such as critical thinking, face-to-face communication, and mindfulness.
The Yondr pouch system is an innovative tool designed to securely store students’ phones during the school day. Upon arrival at school, students will place their phones in a Yondr pouch, which will be locked and returned to them for safekeeping. Students may keep the locked pouch in their backpack or locker. At the end of the day, the pouches will be unlocked, and students will regain access to their devices. This system ensures that phones remain accessible during emergencies while promoting an environment free from unnecessary distractions.
We acknowledge that this adjustment may feel challenging at first, especially given the integral role phones play in many students' daily lives. However, we believe that this temporary separation from devices will be a positive and transformative experience. Research has shown that reducing screen time can improve concentration, academic performance, and social interactions—all of which are critical to student success.
We are committed to making this transition as smooth as possible for everyone involved. To that end, we will provide ongoing communication about the program, answer any questions that arise, and work closely with students and families to address concerns. We encourage parents and guardians to discuss the importance of this initiative with their children and to reinforce the value of engaging fully in the school day without reliance on phones.
Thank you for your support as we take this step toward fostering a more connected and present school community. Together, we can help our students develop the skills and habits necessary for success both in school and beyond.
FAQ
- What is the Yondr pouch?
The Yondr pouch is a secure, locking pouch designed to hold students’ phones during the school day. Each student is issued their own pouch which they always keep with them. Phones remain locked in the pouch and inaccessible during the school day. Other devices such as earbuds and smartwatches must also be placed inside the pouch with the phone. Students remain in possession of their phone - in the Yondr pouch - throughout the school day. We advise students to store the pouch in their backpacks where it will remain safe.
- Why is the school implementing a phone-free policy?
We believe a phone-free environment helps students focus better on their education, develop stronger interpersonal skills, and reduce distractions and social media-related stress during school hours. Phones have become a distraction for students, disrupting their school day, and for teachers who spend valuable time enforcing the existing “no cell phones” policy. The pouch will also reduce safety concerns associated with irresponsible use of the phone.
- How does the Yondr pouch work?
Each student will place their phone inside the Yondr pouch when they arrive at school. Phones can be turned off, or in airplane mode so they won’t ring during the school day. Once sealed, the pouch can only be unlocked using a specialized unlocking base, located in designated areas of the school. At the end of the school day, students will unlock their pouches and retrieve their phones as they exit the school.
- How can I reach my child during the day?
As much as possible, we want students to be engaged in learning during the school day. If you need to contact your child during the school day, parents can contact the school’s main office at 818-487-7600. School staff will either put you in touch with your child, or ensure a message is relayed to the student promptly.
- How can a student reach their parents during the school day?
Students can go to the main office, where they will be able to access a phone to contact their parents or guardians.
- Will exceptions be granted for any students?
Exceptions may be made on a case-by-case basis, usually for medical reasons. Parents or guardians should notify the school in advance, and arrangements will be made with school staff if necessary.
- What if a student refuses to use the Yondr pouch?
If a student does not comply with the policy, the phone will be held in the school office for the remainder of the school day. Repeated non-compliance may result in further disciplinary action in accordance with the school’s code of conduct.
- What if the Yondr pouch is damaged or lost?
Students are responsible for the care of their Yondr pouches. If a pouch is lost or damaged, the student or their family will be required to pay a replacement fee.
- Can students use their phones before or after school?
Yes, students may use their phones before arriving at school and after they leave. Students must lock their phones in their pouches before entering the campus. Phones will be unlocked from the pouches as students exit the campus at the end of the school day. Students will not be allowed to use their phones at YS.
- How will the school ensure that the Yondr pouch policy is followed?
Staff will monitor compliance during the school day. All students are expected to place their phones in the pouches upon arrival and keep them locked until the end of the day. The District has given schools the authority to confiscate phones from students who do not follow the policy.
- How will the school measure the success of this policy?
We will gather feedback from students, parents, and staff, as well as monitor changes in classroom focus, social interactions, and incidents involving phones to evaluate the policy’s effectiveness.
- Can students listen to music or use phones for educational purposes?
Students will not have access to their phones during the school day, including for music or educational apps. We encourage teachers who have used the phone for teaching in the past, to find alternatives that will meet academic needs.
- How can parents support this policy?
Parents can help by discussing the importance of minimizing phone distractions during the school day and encouraging their children to comply with the policy. Remind your child that they can always reach you by coming to the main office. We appreciate your partnership in our communal effort to create a safer, more productive learning environment for all students.
Students, if you have other questions, you can ask them here:
Phone-Free School Day - Student Survey
Students must use an LAUSD email account to access the survey.
Meeting ID: 818 4650 4473