Policy for Cell Phones & Other Devices
In alignment with the NYC Department of Education’s commitment to creating safe, respectful, and distraction-free learning environments, Newtown High School will implement the use of Yondr bags to manage student cell phone use during the school day.
This policy is designed to encourage student engagement, foster social interaction, and protect instructional time.
Policy Overview
All students will be required to secure their personal mobile devices (phones, smartwatches, earbuds) in a Yondr pouch upon entering the school building each day.
Devices will remain locked and inaccessible during the school day.
Students will retain possession of their pouches and devices, but will not have access to use them until dismissal.
Daily Procedures
Upon Entry:
Students will power off their cell phones and place them in their assigned Yondr pouch.
The pouch will be locked by school staff at designated entry points.
Students will carry their locked pouch with them throughout the day.
During the Day:
Pouches are to remain closed and intact. We will be conducting periodic period 2 checks.
Attempts to tamper with, damage, or misuse a Yondr pouch will result in disciplinary action (see below).
At Dismissal:
Students will unlock their Yondr pouches at a designated unlocking station near the main entrance and morning entry.
Devices may be used once students are off school premises.
Emergency Communication:
In case of emergency, parents/guardians should contact the main office directly | 718-595-8400.
If a student needs to contact their family during the day, they may request to use a school phone under staff supervision.
Parents please make sure your emergency contact information is up-to-date in NYCSA.
Exceptions:
Students who require access to a device for documented medical, disability-related, or individualized educational plan (IEP/504) needs may receive a medical pouch with proper documentation.
Disciplinary Actions for Violations
| Infraction | Consequence |
|---|---|
| Lost / tampering with or damaging a Yondr pouch | Parent / guardian conference + replacement cost ($30) |
| Unauthorized use of a device during school hours (1st time) | Device confiscated; warning issued |
| Unauthorized use of a device during school hours (2nd time) | Device confiscated; returned only to parent / guardian; detention / community service |
| Repeated violations (3 or more) | Device confiscated; parent conference; potential disciplinary referral-suspension |
Forgotten Pouch
If a student forgets their Pouch, they are to turn in their device upon entry to be stored in room134; Admin will call home to remind the Parent of the policy. The phone will be returned to the student at dismissal.
If a student consistently forgets their Pouch, it is considered Lost. Refer to the Lost Pouch policy above.