Ellenville Junior/Senior High School

Letter to Families

Dear Parents and Guardians,

A recently enacted New York State law now requires all schools to limit the use of internet-enabled devices, including cell phones, smartwatches, and wireless earbuds, throughout the entire school day. This includes usage in classrooms, hallways, cafeterias, and during bathroom visits. As a district, we are required to comply with this mandate and have implemented procedures to ensure a smooth transition as we begin the new school year.

To support this effort, all students in the Jr/Sr High School will be issued a district-owned Yondr pouch. These secure pouches allow students to store their devices safely throughout the day. Devices will be locked at the beginning of the school day and unlocked as students exit the building. Students may keep the pouch with them, in their backpack, or in their locker.

Should students need to contact a parent or guardian during the day, they may use designated phones located in the main office of each school building. Similarly, parents and guardians can reach their child by calling the school’s main office directly. 

While we understand that adjusting to this policy may take some time, we believe it will ultimately enhance the learning environment for all students. Research consistently shows that minimizing digital distractions in schools improves student engagement and focus.

Also included with this letter are two important documents:

1. Personal Electronic Device Procedures

2. Yondr Pouch Pick Up Dates

We appreciate your support in helping us implement this important initiative. Together, we can create a more focused, engaging, and productive learning environment.  This year, we are focused on building a school culture where all students achieve, and 100% of staff are aligned in support.   We look forward to welcoming our students back on September 4, 2025, and to a successful school year ahead.

Sincerely,

Personal Electronic Device Procedures

What You Need to Know About Your Yondr Pouch

To help us stay focused, safe, and connected to learning, all personal electronic devices must be secured during the school day. That means phones and all other internet-enabled personal electronic devices stay locked in your Yondr Pouch from arrival to dismissal.  Each student is assigned one personal Yondr Pouch to use every day. While it’s school property, you’re responsible for bringing it daily and keeping it in good shape.

Daily Yondr Routine

When you arrive at school:

1. Turn all personal electronic devices off completely.  

2. Place them in your Yondr Pouch.

3. Lock the pouch in front of school staff.

4. Keep your pouch with you in your backpack, locker, or on your person throughout the day.

At the end of the day:

• Head to the nearest designated unlocking station:

  • Grades 7 & 8: Junior High Lobby (Athletic Entrance)

  • Grades 9 - 12: Senior High Lobby & Door Near Room 404

• Unlock your pouch, remove your devices, and lock your pouch back up for the next day. Locking your pouch prevents damage to the case and avoids injury from the locking pin. 

Additional unlocking stations are available in:

• Junior/Senior HS Main Office

• Assistant Principal Offices

• Nurse’s Office

• Athletic Office

Late arrival after 8:00 AM?
You’ll lock your devices at the Senior High Lobby station when you enter.

If There's a Problem...

Forgot your pouch?

• Your devices will be safely stored in the main office vault.

• We’ll call home to remind your parent/guardian of the policy.

• You’ll get your devices back at dismissal.

• If this happens more than once, it will be treated as a lost pouch (see below).

Lost or Damaged Pouch?

• The pouch is school property and must be treated with care.

• You are responsible for replacing lost or damaged pouches.

• The replacement cost is $30.

Examples of pouch damage: Deep scratches or tears, writing on the pouch, a bent or damaged locking pin, or a lock not closing properly.

Students Found with an Unlocked Personal Electronic Device

Habitual violation of these procedures or refusal to comply with issued consequences will be considered insubordination, and the student will be subjected to discipline under the District’s Code of Conduct.