Dear Parents and Guardians of Rising 6th Graders,
As we look ahead to the new school year, I want to share an important initiative to enhance students' educational experience and well-being. In our D102 April newsletter, I mentioned the planned pilot launch of a 6th-grade “Yondr“ bag program designed to manage personal digital devices during the school day. Our District already has a Board of Education policy (Student Behavior 7:190) that requires personal electronic devices to be either turned off or silenced and out of sight during the school day. One of the goals of this pilot is to provide a practical way for students to adhere to this policy.
Why this program now?
Over the past semester, our district has engaged in a deep dive into the impact of technology on student development and the learning environment. This journey has been shaped by collaborative efforts with parent groups like Hold the Phone (HTP), insights from our Tech Education Speaker series, and supported by research highlighted in Dr. Jonathan Haidt’s “The Anxious Generation.”
Our goal is to ensure a distraction-free environment that prioritizes the privacy, safety, and social-emotional growth of every student. We have observed that constant access to digital media, including phones, smartwatches, and earbuds, can significantly disrupt focus and contribute to negative social dynamics. This pilot is a proactive step toward establishing a meaningful practice that reinforces our existing "away for the day" policy.
How does it work?
The Yondr bag is a secure pouch that allows students to keep possession of their devices while ensuring they remain put away during the school day.
Arrival: Upon entering school, students will place their silenced phones and wearable technology into their assigned Yondr pouch and lock it.
The School Day: Students will keep the pouch in their backpack or locker during the day.
Dismissal: Students will unlock their pouches at designated stations as they exit the building, ensuring their devices are available for use immediately after school.
Why 6th Grade?
6th grade represents a unique group of students within our elementary buildings. By implementing this practice now, we can gather critical data and experience to inform future decisions regarding personal technology across grades 6-8. Additionally, as we transition to a 6-8 Junior High, next year’s 6th-grade class will have a pivotal role in that transition.
Evaluation and Next Steps
As a pilot, in the Winter of 2026, we will conduct a comprehensive evaluation using feedback from students, staff, and families to determine the program's effectiveness and its future in District 102.
We understand you may have questions. A detailed FAQ document and additional logistical information will be shared with families in the coming weeks and then again at the beginning of the school year. We look forward to partnering with you to create the healthiest possible environment for our students to learn and grow.
Sincerely,
Dr. Chris Covino
Superintendent
La Grange School District 102
