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Robeson County leaders review Yondr pouches to curb student phone use; state bills still pending
Summary
Superintendent presented reference materials and a Chatham County superintendent video endorsing the Yondr pouch system; board discussed pilot options and alternatives such as Velcro pouches while awaiting action by the state legislature.
Superintendent Dr. Freddie Williamson presented reference letters and a recorded endorsement from the Chatham County superintendent about the Yondr pouch system, a product designed to lock student cellphones during instructional time.
Dr. Williamson said the district’s intent is not to “take cell phones away from students,” but to give schools a way to secure phones while leaving devices on the student’s person. He told the board that two bills that would restrict classroom phone use are currently in both the state House and Senate, and that any local action may be influenced by the legislature’s outcome. “That that is correct,” he said, confirming staff’s assessment that the proposal would create an obligation for school systems if adopted into law.
Jessica Seeley summarized vendor research and said alternatives are limited; the primary competitor cited was a Velcro option but she described Yondr as "far above the rest" in features and support. The district also noted Yondr’s medical pouches, which would not lock so students with medical needs could access phones. A recorded recommendation from Chatham County superintendent Anthony Jackson highlighted reductions in discipline referrals and suspensions at pilot schools using Yondr, though the video speaker cautioned that improvements can’t be solely attributed to the product.
Board members debated timing and cost. Trey Britt recommended piloting in a few schools rather than districtwide rollout, and others noted the current bills appear to be unfunded mandates: "it's my understanding that as it stands, this is an unfunded bill," one board member said. No formal procurement or contract award was made; staff said they will return with additional vendor quotes and implementation scenarios and anticipate bringing the topic back to the board for further consideration.
The district will continue vendor comparisons and provide cost estimates, pilot proposals and additional references before seeking board approval to adopt any phone‑restraining system.
