In a significant move towards creating entirely cell phone-free classrooms, Peoria Public Schools District 150 is investing nearly $250,000 in purchasing up to 9,000 cell phone storage pouches from the company Yondr. This initiative was unanimously approved by the district board during Monday night’s meeting and is aimed at fostering a more focused and engaging educational environment.
The Yondr pouches, which automatically lock when snapped shut and can be unlocked using a magnetic base outside designated “phone free zones,” will be in use throughout the entire school day. Superintendent Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat emphasized that from the moment students enter the school building until the end of their classes, they will be required to store their phones in these pouches.
Without phones available as distractions, Kherat anticipates several positive outcomes, including improved student engagement, reduced bullying, enhanced mental health, and better academic performance. These outcomes will be closely monitored to gauge the effectiveness of the pouches, though Kherat is already optimistic based on a successful pilot program conducted in 2018 at a district middle school with about 30 pouches.
Also Read:
- LGBTQ+ Communities in Rural Regions: Challenges and Triumphs
- Elmhurst Woman Celebrates 102 Years, Offers Advice for a Long Life
Superintendent Sharon Desmoulin-Kherat expects early issues with absenteeism and discipline but believes improvements will follow. The discipline plan escalates for phone rule violations, aiming to foster a focused learning environment.
Addressing concerns from parents about communication during the school day, Kherat assured that emails and calls to the main office would still be viable options for contacting their children. In emergency situations, the school would take responsibility for contacting parents.
