House Bill 1481/Yondr

 

Duncanville ISD to Launch Yondr Phone-Free Schools Program for Middle and High School Students

Duncanville ISD is committed to creating learning environments where every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Beginning with the 2026–2027 school year, the district will implement the Yondr Phone-Free Schools Program for students in grades 6–12 to help minimize distractions and maximize learning.

The Yondr program will launch at Duncanville High School and PACE High School on the first day of school, Thursday, August 6, 2026. Middle school students will receive their Yondr pouches during the first two days of school, August 6–7, with full implementation beginning Monday, August 10, 2026.

This bell-to-bell initiative is designed to increase student engagement, improve academic focus, strengthen face-to-face connections, and support student well-being throughout the instructional day.

Why Yondr?

For more than a decade, Yondr has partnered with schools in all 50 states and more than 35 countries to create healthier, more engaging learning environments. Schools implementing the Yondr program have reported:

• 86% reported improved safety and student wellness
• 84% experienced increased classroom engagement
• 68% saw academic gains
• 44% reduced behavioral referrals

How the Yondr Program Works

Each student will be assigned a Yondr pouch, a secure, lockable case used to store personal electronic devices during the school day. Students are responsible for bringing their assigned pouch to and from school each day and keeping it in good condition.

Daily Routine

Upon Arrival

• Students will power off their cell phone, earbuds, and smartwatch or place their devices in airplane mode.
• Students will place all personal electronic devices inside their Yondr pouch and lock it during first period.

During the School Day

• The locked Yondr pouch will remain with the student in their backpack or locker throughout the instructional day.

At Dismissal

• Students will unlock their Yondr pouch at designated unlocking stations before leaving campus and retrieve their devices.

The process is simple, efficient, and will become part of each student's daily routine.

Duncanville ISD recognizes that implementing a new districtwide initiative requires partnership with our families. We appreciate the continued support of our students, parents, and staff as we work together to create classrooms where students are fully engaged, present, and focused on learning