“TMJH is excited to pilot a pouch system to ensure phone-free learning! Our goal is to reduce distractions, support mental health, and focus on quality interpersonal interactions!”
-Caleb Fine, Principal, Treasure Mountain Junior High
Policing phone usage in the classroom is a distraction and very tough to manage. Recent conversations with Park City parents, staff, and students aim to make a change.
In May 2024, more than 1,500 parents and staff from Ecker Hill Middle School (EHMS), Treasure Mountain Junior High (TMJH), and Park City High School (PCHS) participated in a survey gauging opinions on cell phone use in schools. The survey findings showed that 85% of respondents supported a cell phone ban to address issues related to social-emotional learning, peer presence, and classroom engagement. Approximately 74% of survey respondents supported a cell phone pouch system to manage usage. The success of similar programs at other Utah schools, parent input, and national research have helped Park City School District (PCSD) decide to pilot a pouch system. Dr. Jill Gildea, Superintendent of Schools, supports the “cell phone free school day” and “wait until (the end) of 8th” to purchase cell phones for youth as positive steps towards increased student engagement throughout the school day.
TMJH will be the first Park City School District (PCSD) school to initiate a Cell Phone Pouch Pilot Program this year, using the Yondr locking pouch system. The program is almost entirely funded by the Alnoba Lewis Family Foundation and the Roberts Rothe Fund for Perpetual Giving. Students will place their phones inside a pouch from 7:30 am-2:25 pm during school hours. Once inside, the pouch will lock and students may continue to keep the phone in their possession. This allows students to have their phones with them and is straightforward to implement. There will continue to be exceptions for students who need devices to monitor health concerns.
“PCEF aims to fund educator-powered initiatives that inspire all Park City students to reach their academic and lifelong potential. The impetus for the Yondr Pouch Pilot Program came from administrators, educators, and parents who championed this pilot as a solution to help improve and support students’ mental well-being. With a gift from the Roberts Rothe Fund for Perpetual Giving, matched by a generous gift from the Alnoba Lewis Family Foundation, and several other generous supporters, we are proud to provide the funding for the pilot,”
PCEF President and CEO Ingrid Whitley said.
The PCSD school board will vote on a district-wide cell phone policy on August 20th at their next board meeting. Parents can comment at the board meeting, or via email.
