Knoxville, TN, August 10, 2025
News Summary
Knox County Schools will implement a new cell phone policy using Yondr pouches to secure student devices during school hours, starting August 7, 2025. This initiative aligns with state laws aimed at reducing distractions from smartphones and social media. Students will store their phones in magnetic pouches from the first to the last bell, with exceptions made only for health emergencies or approved educational needs. Initial adopters of this policy, Webb School and Emerald Academy, reported positive changes in student interactions and focus.
Knoxville, TN – Knox County Schools is set to implement a new cell phone policy using Yondr phone pouches across its schools, starting August 7, 2025. This policy adheres to a new state law designed to minimize students’ access to personal devices during school hours, aiming to enhance focus and reduce distractions linked to smartphones and social media.
The Yondr phone pouches utilize patented magnet technology to secure students’ phones, which are stored during the school day. Students are required to keep their personal devices powered off and securely stowed in these pouches from the first bell to the last bell, with exceptions only for health emergencies or special educational needs that may be pre-approved by school authorities.
This initiative derives from increasing concerns regarding smartphone usage among teens, who, according to research, spend an average of 1.5 hours a day on their devices during school, accounting for nearly 25% of their school day. The Webb School of Knoxville and Emerald Academy are the first two institutions in the county to adopt this approach, having both noted significant positive changes in student interactions and classroom attentiveness.
The Webb School has invested approximately $18,000 in the Yondr system, while Emerald Academy allocated around $6,000 for their pouches and related equipment. Emerald Academy has already benefitted from using Yondr pouches for a year, reporting improved social interactions among students and a noticeable decrease in distractions.
Knox County Schools emphasizes the need for students to engage with one another face-to-face rather than through screens. The updated policy, known as J-240, also entails disciplinary measures for students caught misusing personal devices, which may include confiscation of the device or requiring a parent or guardian to retrieve it in severe cases.
Teachers will have the authority to confiscate devices used as distractions during lessons, returning them at the end of the school day. The Knox County Schools district will continue utilizing district-issued Chromebooks as the primary technology for classroom requirements. Moreover, the policy provides flexibility for students with Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or Section 504 plans regarding device use.
The board of education approved the new policy with a majority vote, signaling a commitment to a stringent approach regarding personal device use during instructional hours to promote a focused learning environment.
Key Points of the New Cell Phone Policy:
- Implementation date: August 7, 2025.
- Yondr pouches to lock phones during school hours.
- Prohibition of personal devices from first bell to last bell, with limited exceptions.
- Investments: Webb School – $18,000; Emerald Academy – $6,000.
- Disciplinary consequences for improper device use.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the new phone policy?
The new phone policy aims to reduce distractions caused by smartphones and social media, encouraging in-person interaction among students.
How does the Yondr phone pouch work?
The Yondr phone pouch uses a magnet system to lock students’ phones during the school day, keeping them safe and secure while minimizing distractions.
Are there any exceptions to the device restrictions?
Yes, exceptions can be made for emergencies or specific health needs, which must be authorized by school officials.
What happens if a student is caught using their phone?
Disciplinary consequences may include confiscation of the device, with the possibility of it being returned at the end of the day or requiring a parent/guardian to retrieve it in more severe situations.
Will Knox County Schools provide Yondr pouches for all students?
No, Knox County Schools does not plan to purchase additional Yondr pouches for universal use; schools will need to acquire them independently.
Key Features of the New Policy
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Implementation Date | August 7, 2025 |
| Device Prohibition | No personal devices from first bell to last bell, except for emergencies |
| Yondr System | Magnetic pouches to secure student phones during school |
| Investments | Webb School – $18,000; Emerald Academy – $6,000 |
| Disciplinary Actions | Confiscation of devices for improper use during school |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- Knox News: How Knox County Schools Enforce New Cellphone Policy
- WBIR: Two Knoxville Schools Using Locked Pouches for Phones
- WATE: What to Know About the New Knox County Schools Cellphone Policy
- Wikipedia: Cell Phone Use in Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cell Phone
Author: STAFF HERE KNOXVILLE WRITER
The KNOXVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKnoxville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Knoxville, Knox County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Dogwood Arts Festival, Big Ears Festival, and Knoxville Asian Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Knoxville Area Chamber Partnership and United Way of Greater Knoxville, plus leading businesses in healthcare, education, and energy that power the local economy such as Covenant Health, University of Tennessee, and Tennessee Valley Authority. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
