Abilene ISD approves $125,000 purchase of Yondr pouches for new phone policy

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – The Abilene ISD School Board has approved the $125,000 purchase of Yondr bags as part of a new phone policy set to take effect in the 2024-2025 school year.

During a workshop in August 2024, the board discussed options to manage cell phone use, including a potential ‘bell-to-bell’ phone ban and the introduction of Yondr pouches. These pouches have already been implemented at some Abilene campuses, and after careful consideration, the board decided to move forward with the purchase of the bags.

Starting next school year, AISD high school students will be required to place their phones, earbuds, and smartwatches into Yondr pouches before entering campus. The bags will remain locked during the school day and can be unlocked at the end of the day using a designated mechanism placed around the school for students to tap as they exit.

Each student will be provided one Yondr pouch at no cost at the start of the year, but if lost, the replacement cost will be $32.

One of the hurdles the district will have to tackle is the availability of tech for those classes where students use their phones. The district is working with Yondr representatives to ensure a smooth transition, including assessing how the technology will impact classrooms where phones are used for educational purposes. A Yondr rep will visit AISD campuses to help determine the best placement for unlocking stations and assist in developing usage policies.