BSAC Takes a Stand with Petition Against Yondr Phone Pouch Policy

To pouch or not to pouch? That is the question. Boston Public Schools is one of many institutions to begin using the Yondr pouch system, in which schools assign students a bag that is used to magnetically lock their cellular devices and keep it with them. During this time, students can’t use their phones until the pouch is opened at the end of the school day. Unlike other uses of the product, such as at concerts and weddings, where there are easily accessible spaces where one can unlock their phone pouch, this is not the case in school. The intended benefit from the use of these pouches is eliminating phones as a possible distraction in the classroom, and improving student performance through higher levels of engagement. Many students are confused about the current logistics of the Yondr pouches, due to the fact that it hasn’t been used across the Boston School System, only in schools where it is “deemed necessary.”

However, while this design is meant to help the youth, some argue it’s done more harm than good. Such is the case with one youth-led organization based in Boston.

The Boston student advisory council (BSAC), a student-led advocacy group that focuses on amplifying student voices in education equity and policy discussions, is dissatisfied with the recent implementation of the Yondr pouch system within BPS. As a result, they have launched a petition opposing the current policies regarding the use of Yondr pouches. 

Within the petition, which has accumulated over 900 signatures within its first 24 hours of being released, puts an emphasis on the critical importance of dismantling the current usage of the pouches—as there is no clear, organized Yondr policy surrounding the consistency of their implementation across BPS. Furthermore, the cost of Yondr pouches is a financial waste for BPS, as the district still does not have adequate educational materials students need for learning, like updated textbooks. Additionally, requiring students to pay a deposit for these pouches in case of replacements or damages, ultimately results in unnecessary financial strain. As a member of BSAC myself, we feel BPS can use their financial resources for much greater investments related to student success. 

We encourage Boston Public Schools to remove the Yondr Pouch policy and explore more effective ways to manage phone use. We believe a new, thoughtful approach to phone use will empower students to take responsibility for themselves, thus creating a trusting and engaging community. By signing this petition, you show your support for a new policy that supports a better learning environment for all.

For those who would like to sign, and find additional information regarding the petition here’s the link: Yondr Pouch Petition.

Paulina Mendes is the BSAC writer for Teens in Print.