At Northside Charter High School, we believe that learning thrives in a focused, respectful, and engaging environment. To support that vision, we’ve implemented a Distraction-Free School Plan using Yondr pouches—a simple but powerful tool to help our students stay present, connected, and successful during the school day.
Why a Distraction-Free Policy?
Cell phones are an incredible resource, but during school hours, they can easily disrupt learning, communication, and school culture. Our Yondr system allows us to eliminate distractions while still giving students full access to their phones before and after school.
How It Works
1. Morning Arrival
When students enter the building, they place their phones into their assigned Yondr pouch, which is locked by a staff member. The pouch stays with them—safe, secure, and sealed—throughout the day.
2. During the Day
Phones remain in locked pouches during all classes, lunch, and transitions. This keeps our classrooms focused and encourages real connections between students and teachers.
3. End of Day
At dismissal, students unlock their pouches with the help of a staff member, retrieve their phones, and take the pouch home to reuse the next day.
Keeping it Consistent
Students are expected to bring their pouch every day. If a student arrives without a phone, staff will verify with a caregiver to ensure honesty and accountability.
Accountability & Support
We understand that adjusting to a phone-free environment can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve put a clear and fair system in place for students who don’t follow the policy:
| Offense | Response |
|---|---|
| 1st | Verbal warning, phone held until dismissal, caregiver notified |
| 2nd | Phone held until dismissal, caregiver notified, after-school reflection (detention) |
| 3rd | Caregiver must pick up the phone, phone contract signed, extended reflection |
| 4th+ | In-school suspension, parent meeting, extended phone contract |
We’re here to support students every step of the way in adjusting to this policy—and thriving in a learning-first space.
A Culture of Focus
This plan is part of our broader commitment to creating a respectful, academically strong school culture. When phones are out of sight, students are more engaged, teachers are more effective, and our community thrives.
If you have any questions or feedback about our distraction-free policy, feel free to contact us at familyfeedback@northsidechs.org.
