Special to the Reporter

Two weeks after unveiling its MI Phone-Free Schools cell phone and smartwatch policy to commence in the 2024-25 school year, the Mercer Island School District has apprised the school community on how it will implement and sustain the policy.

On Aug. 1, district Superintendent Fred Rundle noted in a letter to the community that each student will use a Yondr pouch to safely and securely store their cell phones, smartwatches, AirPods/Earbuds, and any other personal cell devices. Students will turn their cell phones off or put them in do not disturb mode and then place them and their other items in the pouch and lock the pouch prior to the start of school. Students will then keep the Yondr pouch with them during the course of the school day and will unlock the pouch when leaving school for the day.

Students with medical or other needs requiring access to their phone during the day will use a Velcro Yondr pouch, the letter continues. Students who use this style of pouch will have documented accommodations in their 504, IEP, or healthcare plan.

Each student will have a $15 Yondr fee on their school account to pay for the pouch, Rundle explained. The actual amount of a Yondr pouch is $25, but the community-approved Capital and Technology Levy is offsetting the cost by covering $10 as well as all implementation fees. Students who receive financial assistance will not be charged.

For more information, visit: the MI Phone-Free Schools site at https://tinyurl.com/42b3dz63; Yondr frequently asked questions at https://tinyurl.com/y8anvx4c; and a staff video at https://tinyurl.com/yk5bvzbm.