Highlights
Cincinnati Public Schools Tightens Student Cellphone Policy, Pursues Yondr Pouches
Source: https://www.fox19.com/
Cincinnati Public Schools is planning to provide cellphone pouches for all students district-wide, inspired by a successful pilot program at Hughes STEM High School. These Yondr pouches lock students’ phones during the school day, eliminating the need to surrender them to teachers or staff.
Key Highlight:
- Individual Principals’ Decision: Cincinnati Public Schools isn’t mandating a district-wide cellphone ban but it’s at the discretion of individual principals whether to implement the cellphone pouches.
- Early Adopters: Cincinnati Country Day School was among the first in the region to ban cell phones during school hours, receiving positive feedback.
- Growth of Yondr Pouches: While initially used in entertainment venues, schools have increasingly adopted Yondr pouches due to concerns over youth cellphone use and its impact on education and mental health.
- Statewide Push for Bans: Ohio Governor Mike DeWine advocates for cellphone bans in schools, with some districts like Akron Public Schools already using Yondr pouches.
- Cincinnati Public Schools’ Approach: While not mandating a district-wide ban, Cincinnati Public Schools updated its policy based on positive outcomes from Hughes STEM High School’s Yondr pouch program, allowing principals to decide on cellphone restrictions.
- Effectiveness of Yondr Pouches: Despite attempts to bypass the system, Hughes found success with students turning in their pouches daily, dissuading them from violating the policy.
- Academic and Social Impact: Hughes observed academic improvement, increased engagement, reduced conflict, and enhanced school culture.
- Accessibility: Students still have access to phones for family communication through designated channels, ensuring emergencies can be addressed promptly.
- Cost Considerations: The district anticipates spending around $500,000 from Title IV funding for the pouches, considering it a worthwhile investment in improving school culture.
Image Source: https://www.fox19.com/
