S-E will be device-free

The Sherburne-Earlville Central School District will be a device-free learning environment for students during the 2024-2025 school year.

Following a series of discussions, work sessions and reviews, SECSD stakeholders determined the only viable option for creating and maintaining safety, engaged learning, and social-emotional wellness was to become a device-free school district for all students in Grades K-12.

Personal electronic devices – such as cell phones, smartwatches, and Bluetooth earbuds – must be “Off and Away” from the time students arrive on campus until the end of the regular school day. Elementary School students (K-5) will turn off devices and store them in a classroom or backpack. Students in Grades 6-12 will receive YONDR pouches to secure their personal devices.

SECSD plans to distribute YONDR pouches to students in Grades 6-12 in mid-September. Prior to receiving secure pouches, the expectation is that students’ personal electronic devices will be “Off and Away” all day.

Please note that students in Grades 6-12 will store their backpacks/book bags in lockers this school year but may use a clear, plastic tote bag (no larger than 12x18 inches) to carry YONDR pouches, pencil cases and other small personal items between classes. Clear tote bags are not mandatory, but they may be used if they make it easier for students to transport items.

All students in grades K-12 will be device-free throughout the school day. Grades 6-12 will lock smartphones, smartwatches, and Bluetooth earbuds in a YONDR pouch. Elementary students will turn off devices and store them in a classroom or backpack for the day.

A YONDR pouch locks with a magnet, and students can unlock them as they are leaving campus at the end of the day. Administrators can unlock pouches for classroom use, if needed.

Each student in grades 6-12 will receive a pouch that can be personalized and used for several years. If a pouch is destroyed or lost, a new one must be purchased for $45.

The purpose is to minimize distractions, increase student engagement, and provide the best learning environment possible.

More information to come during registration in August!

 

Yes. Numerous studies substantiate that cell phones are often used for bullying, harassment, and/or spreading rumors or misinformation that can harm others or cause anxiety.

Yes. Studies in various countries showed that after schools banned cell phones, test scores increased and learning improved. Other research shows that multitasking or simply having a cell phone in your pocket during lessons or schoolwork can decrease a student’s ability to learn and complete tasks.

Yes. Frequent use of cell phones has been linked to addiction, anxiety, dependency, depression, a lack of exercise, insomnia, poor sleep habits, and reduced socialization — all of which can harm your mental health.

According to studies, cell phone use during a crisis can actually hinder a school’s emergency response process. Allowing teachers and school officials to lead during an emergency is the best way to keep faculty, staff, and students as safe as possible.

No worries! The Main Office has a phone you can use!

Your parent/guardian can call the Main Office. We will let you know ASAP if they are trying to reach you.

Students in Grades 6-12 will store their backpacks/book bags in lockers this school year but may use a clear, plastic tote bag (no larger than 12x18 inches) to carry YONDR pouches, pencil cases and other small personal items between classes. Clear tote bags are not mandatory, but they may be used if they make it easier for students to transport items.