Chatham County board expands Yondr phone-pouch pilot after district reports lower failing grades and discipline

Chatham County Board of Education members voted to expand a pilot that places students’ phones in lockable pouches during the school day after district staff reported early academic and discipline improvements.

Tracy Fowler, senior executive director of student services, told the board the district surveyed principals, students, parents and staff and received “over 900 responses, around 600 from students, 200 from our parents, and also about 70 from our staff members.” She said the pilot schools tracked course failures and discipline data and reported meaningful drops: “This time last year … they had 241 F's in classes. And this past time, it was 59.”

Chris Poston, senior executive director for Excellence and Opportunity, summarized the survey findings and staff feedback, saying staff responses were the most positive and that principals’ reports suggested improvements in classroom engagement and teacher satisfaction. District presenters said suspensions tied to cell-phone incidents fell compared with the prior year and that students reported improved focus in class.

Board members debated pacing the rollout while the state legislature considers related bills. Still, the board approved a motion to add Northwood and Chatham Central high schools to the Yondr pouch program. The approved motion passed by voice vote.

Administrators said they will continue to evaluate outcomes and coordinate with principals at each school before expanding further. No changes to districtwide policy were adopted at the meeting; the vote authorized expanding the local pilot as presented.