Every morning, the school entrance is filled with a cacophony of clicking sounds coming from small grey and green pouches. The Yondr pouch, a locking case that secures cell phones until they are unlocked with a special magnet, has been introduced to thousands of school in recent years, with JDS launching them in 2024.
The purpose of these pouches is to enhance student engagement, improve classroom management and improve content safety and security. However, the response to Yondrs at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year filled with a wide spectrum of reactions.
Now, two years later, the Yondr pouch has become an essential part of the day. From clicking shut in the mornings to unlocking every afternoon, students have been affected by the policy in many ways. In this episode of The Lion’s Roar, we unpack how Yondrs have been received by the community, what they were intended to do and if they are really changing hallway culture.
Dean of students Roz Landy reflects on the original idea of a no-phones school day and how she views the decision two years later. Sophomore Evie May debates whether or not the Yondrs were necessary in the first place, especially since every student uses a computer as well and junior Brielle Bassin comments on the lasting impacts she sees with her friends.
“To have your phone 24/7 is not healthy for your brain, let alone for your socialization,” Landy said.
Pouches not just been thrown to the background, but have become a permanent part of JDS culture. Students decorate their Yondrs with stickers and patches, proudly display them to their outside friends and even dress up as them for Purim.
To hear more about how Yondr pouches have affected the community and student body, tune in to this edition of The Lion’s Roar and leave your thoughts in the comments.
