Locking up distractions: Haskell County school introduces locking phone pouches

Keota Public Schools in Haskell County is going a step further in implementing a bell-to-bell cell phone policy required by state law. The district says older students will get locking cell phone pouches that will remain locked during the school day, on school grounds.

What is the new cell phone policy?

The Keota Public School District says the new policy bans the use of cell phones, smartwatches, earbuds, headphones, smart glasses, iPods and other devices that connect to the internet or cell network during school hours. Instead, students in all grade levels are expected to keep their devices turned off and out of sight.

Students in pre-K through 6th grade will have their phones and other devices collected and stored in a basket by their homeroom teacher every day.

Students in 7th through 12th grade will have an extra step. The district says students will be given special Yondr pouches to store their phones in. Students will be able to keep those pouches, with their phones inside, with them all day.

The district says pouches will be issued to students like textbooks. Students will be required to purchase a replacement pouch if the one they are issued is lost, stolen or damaged.

When are cell phones allowed?

The policy from Keota Public Schools allows students to have phones with them on field trips, and before and after school. State law also allows devices to be used to monitor certain health conditions.

What if I need to reach my child?

Superintendent Candice Dominguez says parents and guardians who need to contact a student should call the school office.

1. High school: 918-966-3246
2. Elementary school: 918-966-3141

Students needing to contact a parent or guardian during school hours can do so from the school’s office phone.

How do Yondr Pouches work?

Yondr Pouches have a magnetic lock that can be activated upon entrance to the school. Superintendent Dominguez says the pouches used by the district will be unlocked at last bell and can be unlocked in emergency situations.

One of Yondr’s founders, Graham Dugoni, said in 2016 the project is an attempt to break the cell phone addiction and “help people engage with each other in a real way.”

Where are Yondr Pouches used?

Yondr says its products are used around the country from schools to concerts and weddings, summer camps, comedy shows, and even court cases. Some big names listed on the company’s website include Childish Gambino, The Lumineers and Dave Chappelle.