We understand that cell phones have great utility, but cell phone use has increasingly become a source of distraction, antisocial behavior and conflict both at home and at school.
Fannie Lou Hamer Freedom High School believes in maintaining a safe and effective educational environment for all of its students. Research shows that the mere presence of cellphones in the classroom can be detrimental to student performance. According to a survey and report from Common Sense Media that involved 1,240 interviews with parents and their 12 to 18-year-old children, 50% of teens feel attached to their mobile devices, and 59% of their parents agree that their kids have a problem putting their devices down (U.S. News & World Report).
Yondr is currently used across the world in hundreds of classrooms and schools, at concerts, comedy shows, weddings and special events of all kinds. The goal of these spaces is to encourage people to engage with each other and their surroundings.
The Yondr program employs a simple, easy-to-use case that stores a cell phone and requires an unlocking base to open. When students arrive at school, they will place their phone in a Yondr case which is then locked. Students maintain possession of their phones but will not be able to use them until they are unlocked at the end of the day. Should a teacher decide to use phones for an educational purpose, he/she will be able to for pre-approved lessons in the curriculum.
We believe this will allow our students to be:
In an effort to best serve your child, we will need your full support in adoption of the Yondr program at our school. We want to assure our families that you can reach your student at the main office at 718-861-0521. Please save this number for easy access.
Thank you for your continued support in ensuring a safe and healthy learning environment for our students. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school directly, or attend one of our upcoming meetings about the adoption of Yondr.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I want to reach my student during the school day?
We want our students to be engaged in their learning. Please refrain from contacting your student during the school day unless it is an emergency. Please contact the main office at 718-861-0521 to reach your student.
What if there is an emergency?
In case of an emergency, we direct our students to safety first. School staff will be able to unlock a Yondr case in a matter of seconds for students once they are in a safe and secure location.
Will my student’s phone be safe?
Yes, because students are in possession of their phone in the Yondr case and should keep the case stored away in their backpacks.
What if the case gets damaged?
If a student damages or loses their Yondr case, they will be required to submit their phone to a school administrator immediately. The student’s parent or guardian will have to retrieve the phone from Fannie Lou Hamer Freedom High School. The Yondr case is the property of Fannie Lou Hamer Freedom High School. Any damage to or loss of school property will result in a replacement charge of $35.