In recent weeks, some state lawmakers and education officials are pushing for a statewide law that would keep students off their phones during the school day much like the policy implemented by Branford earlier this year.

Last month, the Education Committee of the state House of Representatives held a public hearing about efforts to ban student cell phone use in schools. Branford is one of the few districts in the state which requires students lock away cell phones during the school day.  School leaders say the goal is to reduce distractions in class and supports social and emotional well being.

Schools in Waterbury and New Haven have also begun using the Yondr pouches – like Branford – to secure the student phones.

While the state legislature debates implementing a statewide ban, students at Branford public schools are still adjusting to the Yondr pouch policy. While the pouches have reduced phone distraction, they also changed how students communicate and manage their school day. 

The Yondr pouch policy has started an important conversation about the role of phones in schools. While some students support the change and say it helped them focus, others still have concerns about communication and safety. As more schools in Connecticut consider similar policies, the experience of students at schools like Branford High School may help guide future decisions about how phones should be handled during the school day. 

However, some students say they feel uneasy not having access to their phones during the school day. 

“I feel uncomfortable with my phone being locked in the Yondr pouch because I feel there is always something missing without my phone,” says sophomore M.S., who asked to remain anonymous.

Some students, like freshman Jordan Curtis, are worried about safety.

“My mom and I are concerned about the ability to contact each other during emergencies,” Curtis said. 

Despite these concerns, many teachers have noticed positive changes in the school enviroment since the policy began.

Classes are often quieter, and distractions have decreased, according to teachers and students. Freshman Kepler Dagou said he believe putting away the cell phones has improved the classroom atmosphere.

“I like using the Yondr pouch because some other students used to use their phones in class, and I felt it was disrespectful for the teachers who are trying to teach,” Dagou said. “Now it feels so peaceful in my classes without the phones buzzing every few minutes.”

Teachers have noticed the differences as well. Science teacher Matthew Park said the change has encouraged more face to face interaction among students.

“The Yondr pouches had a great impact on students. After the Yondr pouches, students talk to each other more during lunch and free periods. Instead of everyone sitting silently on their phones, people actually have conversations,” Park said.

Substitute teacher Roy Knicklebein agreed that the policy has helped improve classroom focus.

“It’s easier to substitute now in classes without cell phones,” Knicklebein said. “Also, students get more work done with phones not in use.”