April 5, 2025
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thomasville City Schools Board Approves New Cell Phone Policy for Middle and High School Students
Thomasville, GA – In a continued effort to enhance academic achievement, improve school climate, and ensure student safety, the Thomasville City School Board has approved a new cell phone policy for students in grades 6-12, set to begin in the 2025-2026 academic year. As part of the new policy, students will utilize Yondr cell phone pouches, a technology-driven solution that limits cell phone access during the instructional day while allowing students to retain possession of their devices.
The decision follows months of research and planning by the district’s School Safety Committee, which was established in September 2024. The committee, made up of school administrators, educators, and other stakeholders, identified cell phones as a significant distraction and safety concern across campuses. A districtwide safety needs assessment echoed those concerns, with many parents and community members noting the negative impact of cell phones on student behavior, engagement, and academic performance.
“Extensive research clearly shows that excessive cell phone use during the school day has a detrimental impact on both academic performance and student mental health,” said Jordan Williams, Chief Academic Officer for Strategic Initiatives. “We have done our due diligence by researching this policy and visiting schools where the Yondr pouches have been implemented. Every teacher and administrator we spoke with shared positive feedback. They consistently reported increased student engagement, a noticeable decline in serious disciplinary incidents, and a significant improvement in the overall school climate and culture."
Yondr pouches use a simple magnetic locking system. At the start of the school day, students place their cell phones and smartwatches into the pouch, which is then locked and remains in the students’ possession. Devices can only be unlocked at the end of the school day, ensuring that instruction remains uninterrupted. Medical exemptions will be available for students with documented needs. Also, teachers will have the capability to unlock the pouch in the event it is necessary.
Superintendent Dr. Scott Sweeting also visited schools using the Yondr system and was encouraged by the results. “We understand that this will be a change for students and parents, but we want to reassure families that they will still be able to contact their children through traditional means, such as calling the school,” Dr. Sweeting said.
In addition to implementing the new cell phone policy, Thomasville City Schools is committed to increasing transparency around school safety plans and protocols. The district will be enhancing communication efforts through its website and direct outreach to families, ensuring parents, students, and staff have easy access to clear and up-to-date safety procedures. By providing regular updates and resources, the district aims to foster a safer, more informed school community where everyone plays a role in maintaining a secure learning environment.
The move comes as the conversation around student cell phone use continues to gain attention statewide. Most recently, the Georgia Senate passed a bill banning cell phones in elementary and middle schools. Sen. Randy Robertson (R-Cataula) referred to cell phones as “a serious cancer in our classroom,” while Sen. Jason Esteves (D-Atlanta) highlighted positive results in districts that have already implemented similar policies, citing “higher grades, fewer disciplinary issues, and more engaged students.”
Thomasville City Schools is actively seeking feedback from parents regarding the new policy. A parent survey is available here: https://forms.gle/mmaYUYBmra48CKRb7
“This is simply a tool that supports our cell phone policy,” added Williams. “It will only be effective with consistency from everyone. I am excited about the academic and mental benefits this policy will bring.”
