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Board approves adding two high schools to Yondr pouch pilot after district survey showed improved engagement
Summary
Following a district report and survey, the Chatham County Board of Education voted to add Northwood and Chatham Central high schools to the Yondr pouch pilot; staff presented survey results and school-level discipline and grade data as supporting evidence.
The Chatham County Board of Education voted to add Northwood High School and Chatham Central High School to the district's Yondr pouch pilot program after staff presented survey results and school data from the initial implementation.
Assistant and senior executive staff told the board the pilot—implemented at Chatham Middle, George Moses Horton, Margaret B. Pollard, OneChatham Academy, Jordan Matthews and Seaforth High School—generated more than 900 survey responses (about 600 students, 200 parents, and 70 staff). Administrators reported that roughly 85% of staff respondents said the pouches improved student engagement, academics and school climate; parents generally reported 65–70% agreement on those measures.
District presenters highlighted school-level outcomes. Seaforth High School reported a decline in failing grades (Fs) from 241 at the comparable prior period to 59 after implementation. The district also reported a 31% reduction in suspensions compared with the same point last year.
In discussion, some board members and the superintendent noted differing perceptions between students and adults: staff and administrators reported improvements in classroom focus and collaboration, while some student survey responses were less positive. Staff told the board that students said they appreciated not being recorded or photographed and that teachers were able to use Chromebooks for photos and classwork when needed.
Motion and vote: Board member moved that “Chatham County Board of Education approve the addition of Northwood and Chatham Central High Schools to the Yondr program as presented.” The motion passed on a voice vote (all present voted aye; no named dissent recorded in the transcript).
Why it matters: District staff and administrators characterized the pilot as reducing cell-phone related distractions, improving teacher satisfaction with classroom environment, and correlating with fewer Fs and fewer suspensions at pilot sites. Several neighboring districts reportedly contacted Chatham staff for details on implementation.
Next steps: The board approved adding the two high schools and staff said they will continue monitoring outcomes and coordinate with principals about consistent enforcement and any state-level policy developments.
