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Creating a Phone/Device Free Environment at Preuss

This year, The Preuss School UC San Diego launched the use of Yondr pouches to keep scholars’ phones and devices securely locked away during the school day—out of sight and out of mind. As we wrap up the first week, it’s inspiring to see how quickly scholars have adapted, using the pouches with ease.

Scholars need to bring their pouch to school every day. Scholars have been assigned a pouch, even if they do not bring a phone to school, and all must show a locked pouch at the front gate to enter campus. AirPods and smart watches also need to go into the pouch. Many scholars are also finding the pouch a convenient place to store small valuables throughout the day.

Research shows that reducing phone access during school improves focus, decreases distractions, and increases both academic performance and positive social interactions. Already, we are seeing these benefits take hold in our classrooms and community.

We thank our scholars, families, and staff for embracing this change as we work together to strengthen engagement, improve outcomes, and create a more connected, distraction-free learning environment.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Arrival & Pouching

    1. Upon entering campus, scholars power off or airplane mode their phone and then place their phone and devices (smartwatch, earbuds) into a Yondr pouch.
    2. The pouch locks using a secure magnetic locking system and remains in the scholar’s possession throughout the school day.

  2. During the School Day

    1. The phone remains locked and inaccessible to the scholar.
    2. Scholars are expected to focus on academic and social interactions free from digital interruptions.

  3. Unlocking & Departure

    1. At the end of the school day, scholars unlock their pouches at designated unlocking stations located at campus exits.
    2. Scholars retrieve access to their devices after school.
    3. Scholars close their pouch and keep it with them.

Storage & Responsibility

Storage and responsibility

  • All scholars are assigned a pouch
  • Scholars are responsible for their assigned pouch.
  • All scholars have to have their pouch with them everyday, even if they do not have a phone. 
  • Scholars without a pouch will be given a warning first
  • Failure to bring your pouch will result in progressive discipline

Pouch-checks 

  • Upon entering campus scholars will show their pouch locked. 
  • Classroom pouch checks will be conducted throughout the year.  
  • Pouches will be examined for damage and functionality, tampering with pouches will result in disciplinary consequences.
  • Damage pouches will be reported to the office 
  • If a pouch is lost or destroyed, replacement cost $35.

Consequences & Info regarding Equity/Support

Consequences for Phone/Device Violations

  • 1st Offense: Device confiscated; returned to parent/guardian only. 
  • 2nd Offense: Device confiscated; returned to parent/guardian only; and parent-administrator conference.
  • 3rd Offense: Saturday School and parent-administrator conference and loss of privileges, including extracurriculars and field trips.
  • Chronic Violations: May result in suspension. 

Scholars following the policy and procedures

  • Periodically scholars who are consistently following the policy may receive incentives throughout the year.

Equity and Support

Scholars requiring phone access due to documented medical conditions or IEP/504 accommodations may be granted limited access through the Scholar Services Office.

At The Preuss School, we are committed to creating a learning environment where every scholar can thrive. That’s why we are proud to become a phone/device-free campus in 2025. By using Yondr pouches, we’re not just removing distractions—we’re opening up space for focus, creativity, and meaningful connection. Research shows that going phone-free helps scholars improve academic performance, reduce anxiety, and build stronger social bonds. 


With fewer interruptions, you’ll have more time to engage in deep learning, collaborate with peers, and be fully present in your classes and friendships. This is more than a policy—it’s a step toward a healthier, more connected school community where you can succeed and grow. 


Let’s make Preuss a place where focus, excellence, and community lead the way!