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RSU 5 board advances phone-policy first read after students, teachers press concerns about Yonder pouches
Summary
After sustained public comment from students and teachers opposing a bell-to-bell phone ban and the purchase of Yonder pouches, the RSU 5 board brought a new cell-phone policy (JICJ) forward for first read and directed administrators to draft implementation procedures; the board agreed implementation will be staged for 07/01/2026.
The RSU 5 Board of Directors on Dec. 10 advanced a new district policy on student cell phones and personal electronic devices to a formal first read, after students, teachers and staff urged caution about a proposed bell-to-bell ban and the district purchase of Yonder pouch systems.
Students who spoke at the meeting argued the pouches would create safety and equity problems and divert money from pressing staffing and mental-health needs. "We need guidance, not restrictions that treat us as if we aren't capable of learning these skills," said Emily Kelsch, a Freeport High School sophomore. Hazel Gullett, another student leader, told the board, "Yonder pouches are a safety issue," citing concerns about contacting family or emergency services during a school…
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