For a long time, teachers have been constantly battling student phone usage during class. The introduction of Yondr Pouches in school systems such as the DOE has greatly impacted school communities. Students are now obligated to participate in classroom activities with phones stored in these pouches — a significant win for teachers.
Yondr is a company focused on reducing phone usage in places where phones should not be used. The company aims to temporarily alleviate device intrusions and create distraction-free spaces. Founded in 2014 by Graham Dugoni, Yondr Pouches have been implemented in schools and concerts worldwide, helping parents, educators, artists and organizations create distraction-free environments.
Phone usage has been a serious problem in many New York City schools since devices became more accessible and advanced. While plans to restrict student device use had been proposed several times, Governor Kathy Hochul implemented a statewide cellphone ban to create distraction-free learning environments. According to the Governor’s office: “The statewide cellphone ban was enacted to support academic achievement and foster focused learning environments in schools by minimizing avoidable distractions. The policy requires schools to implement consistent protocols for the storage and management of personal electronic devices so that students can engage fully in instruction, collaboration, and social development without the constant interference of digital distractions.” The ban took effect in all public schools for the 2025-2026 school year and appears to be permanent.
Since implementation, schools citywide have adopted phone storage devices. However, not all students and parents support the ban. Student Rainer J. Kessel said: “I don’t think it’s justified because we’re definitely in a digital age. Our entire school experience has been digitalized. I think it definitely makes it a lot harder to keep track of my work.” Most teachers and school faculty, however, support the ban, citing improved learning environments.
At the Academy of American Studies, the phone ban was implemented using Yondr pouches. Phone usage had been an ongoing issue at the school, and previous regulations were often ineffective. For example, phone holders placed in classroom fronts were intended to monitor and prevent phone use, but students frequently removed their phones shortly after placing them in the holders. Some teachers abandoned the practice altogether due to its unreliability. With Yondr Pouches, teachers no longer monitor phone use — the pouches effectively prohibit access during school hours.
Some schools, however, have reported challenges with implementation. According to Chalkbeat “some districts are still wrestling with how best to collect, store, and monitor student devices, noting that flexibility in implementation has resulted in inconsistent practices across schools. Administrators have acknowledged that without clear enforcement structures and adequate staff training, the cellphone ban’s potential benefits may be undermined by confusion and uneven compliance.”
The emergence of Yondr pouches in New York public schools has proven to be a significant step forward, providing distraction-free classroom environments. These systems allow teachers to focus on instruction while students engage more fully in lessons. Beyond academics, the ban has helped students develop social skills through peer interaction, revitalizing school communities.