This message was emailed to MS families on Wednesday, August 6, 2025.
Dear Middle School Families,
We’re writing to inform you about an important change taking effect this fall. As Dr. Norman shared in his recent letter, according to the NYS Distraction-Free Schools law, all public schools—including Monroe-Woodbury Middle School—will implement a “Distraction-Free Schools” policy starting in the 2025–2026 school year.
This law prohibits the use of personal electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, earbuds, wireless headphones and other internet-enabled devices during the school day for all students in grades UPK–12. School-issued devices are exempt and will continue to be an important instructional tool in the classroom.
What This Means for Middle School Students
At the Board of Education meeting on July 23, the Board approved the Students and Personal Devices Policy.
To comply with the law, our middle school will begin using the Yondr Pouch system to ensure a phone-free learning environment and minimize distractions.
All students will be issued a Yondr pouch during first period on the first day of school. Students who are absent will pick up their pouches at the main office upon their return to school.
Each morning, students must:
Turn off their phone or other personal devices (smartphones, smartwatches, earbuds, etc.)
Place them in their assigned Yondr pouch
Lock the pouch before entering the school building
Devices will remain sealed in student backpacks or lockers until dismissal, when students will unlock their pouches at designated stations.
Students will maintain possession of their devices at all times, but will not have access to them during the instructional day.
Students will be expected to bring their pouch to school every day.
Families may request an exemption under specific circumstances, such as for documented medical or disability reasons. If you believe your child qualifies for an exemption, please complete the online Exemption Request form.
All requests will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the district's Exemption Review Committee. Submission of this form does not guarantee approval, but it is the first step in the review process. If you are requesting an exemption for more than one child, please complete a separate exemption form for each student.
Student-Family Communication
We value family communication. Cell phone use is allowed after school. In emergencies, students may use the main office phone to contact parents or guardians. Families may also call the office to relay urgent messages to students.
Why We’re Doing This
The Yondr system is used in over 2,000 schools worldwide. Research shows that phone-free schools:
See higher student engagement
Experience fewer social media conflicts
Report better behavior and academic focus
Promote improved mental health and well-being
More information can be found here: https://www.mw.k12.ny.us/page/distraction-free-schools.
District leaders recently recorded a Crusader Chat, during which they answered questions from family members and students. View the Crusader Chat.
Upcoming Opportunities to Learn More
Join a virtual Crusader Chat on Monday, August 25:
12:30-1:30 PM or 6:00-7:00 PM
Complete the online form to share your contact information and we will send you a Google Meet link closer to the Chat date.
We appreciate your partnership and support as we implement our procedures to comply with the new law. We know that together, we can create a safe, focused, and positive learning environment for all middle schoolers.
Warm regards,
Rafael Vásquez Jr.
Principal