Why is UHS going cell phone-free during the school day?
We want school to be a place where students are fully present—focused, connected, and engaged. Over the past few years, students, teachers, and families have shared that phones can get in the way of learning, conversations, and real connections. This shift is about creating space for more of the good stuff: curiosity, community, and attention.

What if I need my phone for something important?
We know things come up. If there's an emergency or a special situation, you can go to the High School office, and we’ll help you out. For everyday needs, we encourage planning ahead—whether that’s checking rides, coordinating with family, or setting reminders.

Will students still have their phones with them?
Yes. Students maintain possession of their phones at all times. The pouch simply prevents access during the school day. How is this supposed to help students?
Going phone-free helps you:
● Stay focused in class
● Talk more with classmates
● Feel less pressure to constantly check phones
● Be more present, creative, and open to new experiences

What if a student forgets their pouch?
There will be no disciplinary consequences. However, the phone and other personal electronic devices will be collected by school staff before students are able to go through the metal detectors. The phone and other personal electronic devices will be held in the office for the entirety of the school day. The phone and other personal electronic devices will be collected by the students at the end of the school day.

What if I break the rules?
There will be consequences. For the first offense, students will be issued one detention, and the phone will be confiscated. Students will be able to pick up the phone
at the end of the school day. For the second offense, students will be issued two detentions, the phone will be confiscated, and the parents/guardians must pick up the
phone. For the third offense, students will be issued a suspension, the phone will be confiscated, and the phone must be picked up by the parent/guardian. Additionally,
students who have three offenses in one year will not be allowed to bring phones into the building.

What if there’s an emergency at school?
Schools have established emergency response systems and communication plans that o not rely on student cell phones. Staff and administrators maintain full access to
communication devices throughout the school day. In the event of an emergency, students should be able to take extraordinary measures to access their devices.

Can a student access their phone for medical reasons?
Yes. Students with documented medical needs (e.g., monitoring blood sugar, seizure-monitoring apps) can receive individualized accommodations according to
school policy.

What happens if a student tries to open or tamper with the pouch?
Tampering with or damaging the pouch is a violation of school policy. Disciplinary consequences will be imposed, and monetary damages will be incurred.

How is the Yondr policy enforced?
Unauthorized access to phones during the day will result in progressive disciplinary steps outlined in the student handbook.

What if the pouch or the locking system breaks?
If a pouch is malfunctioning, students should report it to school staff immediately. The school will provide a replacement at no cost unless the damage is intentional.

How does Yondr impact teaching and learning?
Teachers report improved focus, more active participation, fewer classroom interruptions, and an overall calmer learning environment.

Does the policy apply to after-school events and athletics?
No. Students will have access to their phones upon dismissal from school.

Does the policy apply to field trips?
Potentially, the District administration will make a case-by-case decision based on the expected activity and the potential benefit of cell phones on the trip.

Are other electronic devices restricted?
Yes, in general, smartwatches, earbuds, tablets, and similar devices must also remain off and stored unless permitted for instructional use.

What if my student attends the career center?
Students who attend the career center will follow the same rules as all other students while they are in the building at Union. Career center students will be expected to follow all the rules and regulations as set forth by the Clarion County Career Center. Students will be able to unlock their Yondr bags as they leave Union for the career center. Upon arriving back at Union, they will need to resecure their items in the Yondr bag.