School District Implements Yonder Pouches Amid Parental Outcry Over Cell Phone Policy

A new policy requiring students to use "yonder pouches" to secure their cell phones and smartwatches during school hours has sparked significant concern among parents in Ashe County. During a recent county commission meeting, officials discussed the implementation of this system, which mandates that students lock away their devices upon arrival at school, only to retrieve them at the end of the day.

One commissioner noted that the response from parents has been overwhelmingly negative, with around 100 calls received in just a few weeks. "People are so stressed out... it's not the students, it's their parents that are complaining," he stated, highlighting the frustration surrounding the new rules. While the intention behind the policy is to minimize distractions in the classroom, many parents feel the execution may lead to chaos as students navigate the process of retrieving their devices.

In addition to the cell phone policy, the meeting also touched on the upcoming fall soccer season, with officials encouraging families to register players despite some teams reaching capacity. The discussion underscored the community's ongoing commitment to youth sports and engagement.

The meeting also paid tribute to community volunteers and emergency responders, acknowledging their vital role in supporting the county. A recent bicycle race brought over 400 participants to Ashe County, showcasing the area’s appeal for events and tourism.

Ashe County continues to navigate these changes, balancing educational policies with community concerns, while also celebrating local achievements and the spirit of volunteerism.