Cell Phone Policy

Personal Electronic Devices (PEDs) and Accessories:

Students are required to power off and securely store all personal electronic devices—including cell phones, smart watches, and headphones—from the beginning of the school day until dismissal. This expectation applies during all instructional time, passing periods, and lunch breaks. Students participating in a school-sponsored activity or attending a college class off campus during the regular school day may access their device as permitted by the principal.

The following will be expected of students during the school day:

• Students shall not access or use personal electronic devices from 7:55 a.m. to 3:15 p.m., including during lunch and passing periods.
• All PEDs must remain secured inside the student's locked Yondr pouch throughout the school day.
• PEDs must not be used or visible in classrooms, hallways, restrooms, locker rooms, the library, or any other area of the building unless expressly directed by school staff.
• This policy applies to cell phones and all connected devices and functions, including smartwatches, wireless headphones/earbuds, cameras, and apps–unless otherwise permitted through a written IEP or 504 plan.
• Students arriving late or returning to campus during the day are responsible for ensuring their devices are stored in a locked pouch (or backpack for elementary students) per school procedures.
• Violations of this policy will result in device confiscation and disciplinary action per the student handbook.
• Refusal to comply with PED procedures–including refusing to lock a device or surrender it when asked–will result in disciplinary consequences consistent with the administrative guidelines for Open Defiance or other applicable categories.
• Parents/guardians needing to contact their child during the school day should call the main office. School staff will ensure messages are delivered as needed.
• Student use of PEDs is permitted before and after school, as well as during school trips when explicitly allowed by the principal.

Violations of the bell-to-bell policy will result in the following discipline measures:

Middle School & High School

• First Offense: Device held in the assistant principal's office for the day; parent/guardian notified; behavior contract completed; parent must pick up the device
• Second Offense: Device held for the day: parent/guardian pick-up required; one day of in-school suspension (ISS) assigned
• Third Offense: Device held; parent pick-up required; 1-3 days ISS assigned
• Fourth Offense & Beyond: Device held; parent pick-up required; parent meeting scheduled; student may face additional consequences for Open Defiance per the USD 470 Administrative Guidelines

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Elementary

• First Offense: Parent contact and device confiscated until the end of the day
• Second Offense: Device confiscated until the end of the day and parent retrieves device
• Third Offense: Detention, device confiscated until the end of the day, parent retrieves device
• Fourth Offense & Beyond: Repeat above consequence

What is a Yondr pouch?

A Yondr pouch is a secure, lockable case used to store personal electronic devices—like cell phones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds—during the school day. Students place their devices inside the pouch and close it using a special magnetic lock. This image shows what a Yondr pouch and unlocking station look like.

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Why did you make this change?

At USD 470, we want every student to feel supported—not just in the classroom, but socially and emotionally, too.

Over the past few years, phones have become a growing distraction. It's hard to stay focused when messages, apps, and notifications are just a click away. Even during lunch or downtime, phone use can lead to social media issues or unnecessary drama that spills over into the school day.

By going phone-free, we’re making room for better focus, stronger connections, and a more positive school experience overall.

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Can I still get ahold of my child during the day?

Yes. Students will still have access to their phones before and after school.

If you need to reach your child during school hours, just call the school office and we’ll make sure they get the message.

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What if there is an emergency?

We understand this is a common concern—and it’s an important one. Student safety is always our top priority, and we wouldn’t move forward with this change if we thought it would make schools less safe.

In some situations, having a phone out can actually make things more difficult. When students are texting, calling, or recording during an emergency, they may miss important instructions—or even put themselves in more danger.

Our staff are trained to respond in emergencies and will guide students through the steps they need to take. Families will be notified quickly using our official district communication tools.

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Will my child's phone be safe?

Yes. High School and Middle School Students may keep their phones with them all day—just secured in their locked Yondr pouch. We’ll encourage students to store the pouch in their backpack or locker, where it stays safe and out of the way during class. Elementary students will be asked to store their phones in their backpacks.

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What if my child needs their phone for medical reasons?

We understand that some students have specific health needs that may require consistent access to their phone. If that’s the case for your child, exceptions can be made. Just work with your school to provide the appropriate medical documentation, and we’ll make sure the right supports are in place.

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What happens if I lose or forget my Yondr pouch?

Just like with Chromebooks or other school materials, students are responsible for keeping track of their assigned Yondr pouch.

If a pouch is lost, a replacement fee will be charged. If a student forgets their pouch, their phone will be safely stored in the office until the end of the day.

If a pouch is damaged or a student is found using their phone during the day, staff will collect the pouch or phone and contact a parent or guardian. Continued issues may lead to further consequences based on school policy. You can find additional information in the student handbook. 

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What happens if a student has a personal device out during the day?

Students are expected to keep phones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds secured in their Yondr pouch during school hours. If a device is seen or used during the day, consequences will apply as outlined in our handbooks. 

Visit the Yondr Website