Phone-Free Policies Improve Focus, Safety, and Academic Success
Cell phones and social media are increasingly disrupting student focus, performance, and mental health. In response, the U.S. Department of Education is urging the adoption of clear, research-based policies for cell phone use in schools, emphasizing the importance of creating policies that meet the unique needs of each school community. A growing number of states have implemented legislation or unlocked funding to restrict the use of cell phones and wearable tech in schools. In addition, districts and schools have implemented their own phone-use restrictions.
However, not all phone policies are effective; some are too vague or difficult to enforce, making a clear, consistent policy—and program—essential.
“Cellphone bans are in place in 77% of schools. But this high number seems to refer to... any school that tells students they should not use their phone while in class. That's not really a ban; it's more of an unenforceable wish.”
- Jonathan Haidt, Author and Social Psychologist,
The Atlantic: Get Phones Out of Schools Now
Yondr’s All-Day Solution
More than just a pouch, The Yondr Phone-Free Schools Program is a complete bell-to-bell solution combining patented technology, tailored training, and ongoing support.
Phone-Free Equipment: Essential tools like pouches, unlocking bases, and lockboxes make the transition to a phone-free environment seamless.
Training & Support: Year-round program support, including pre-launch planning, mid-year check-ins, and end-of-year reviews, ensures success every step of the way.
Curriculum Resources: Customizable presentations, lesson plans, and activity guides help educators and parents build healthy digital habits beyond the classroom.
Yondr schools report dramatic improvements in academic performance, classroom engagement, and social connection, alongside a significant decrease in cyberbullying and behavioral incidents. Many teachers at Yondr schools have reported gaining as much as 10 minutes of additional teaching and learning time each lesson. In addition to reported benefits in learning and behavioral outcomes for students, Yondr schools have reported improved work environments for staff.
Yondr’s patented lockable pouch allows students to maintain ownership of their devices while reinforcing boundaries for a focused and supportive learning environment. While phone bans and cell phone collection methods are often equated with punishment or being in trouble, Yondr’s all-day solution makes a positive difference for students in a much less confrontational way. With Yondr, students are not tempted to break policy, lose focus, and potentially suffer school consequences. They don’t worry about missing out on the digital world because their classmates’ phones are out of sight and out of mind, too. Instead, they get a much needed 6-8 hour break from digital distractions.
“I have had teachers come in my office from other states, numerous hires and from other schools… they say they won’t go to a school without the [Yondr] cell phone pouch. Teachers are looking for help with distractions like this because it interrupts their lessons.”
- Ewell Fuller, Principal, Stanhope Elmore High School
The Wetumpka Herald: Cell Phone Policy Leads to School of Distinction
At Yondr, our mission is to create spaces where students can BE HERE NOW. Let’s work together to create a phone-free space where students can disconnect from their phones and truly connect with each other.
