RCPS to implement lockable pouches for cell phones, other devices for K-8th grades

CONYERS, GA– Rockdale County Public Schools (RCPS) will implement the use of Yondr pouches to secure cell phones and personal devices in pre-Kindergarten through eighth grade for the upcoming school year.

The move follows Georgia’s Distraction Free Education Act (HB 340), signed into law this year. The new law requires all public schools in Georgia to enact a policy and procedure for the use of personal electronic devices at school and school-sponsored events for students in kindergarten through eighth grade (K-8).

“Our classrooms aim to foster an environment where every student can focus, engage, and thrive,” said

Superintendent Shirley Chesser. “By limiting personal electronic devices during instructional time, the

Distraction-Free Education Act allows us to remove barriers to learning and restore the classroom as a place of instruction and connection.”

In accordance with the law, the RCPS policy defines a personal electronic device as any portable electronic

device that is capable of transmitting, receiving, or accessing communications, data, or media. This includes but is not limited to smartphones, smartwatches, tablets, e-readers, headphones, and other devices with

functionalities such as wireless communication, internet access, messaging, video recording, gaming, social

media access, or data transmission.

Students will be asked to turn off their personal device upon entering the school building. Students will place

their device in a lockable pouch that they will keep with them throughout the school day. Pouches will be

unlocked at the end of the school day. Pouches will remain at school. Any student who willfully damages or

alters the Yondr pouch will face disciplinary action and will be charged a fee to cover the cost of repair or

replacement.

Students with medical needs or disabilities that require access to a device during the school day may be eligible

for accommodations. Students who monitor their blood sugar levels with their device must have a Diabetes

Medical Management Plan on file to maintain possession of their device during the school day and at school

sponsored events. Parents and guardians should contact their school to discuss individual needs and arrangements.

Parents and guardians who may need to reach a student for urgent or emergency matters should contact their

school’s front office.

For Frequently Asked Questions and more information or to view RCPS Board of Education policies, visit:

www.rockdaleschools.org