Cell Phone Policy

Beginning in the 2025–26 school year, all New York City public schools – including World Journalism
Preparatory School – will be phone-free environments, as announced by Mayor Adams and Governor Hochul.
This citywide policy aims to create a learning environment that is focused, engaging, and free from the
distractions caused by personal devices. (NYCPS Cell Phone and Electronic Device Policy)
At World Journalism Preparatory School, we will be using the Yondr pouch system to meet this requirement
while keeping your child’s device secure throughout the day. Each student will be assigned a personal Yondr
pouch, which must be brought to school daily and kept in good condition.

Students are permitted to bring the following electronic items to school:
1) cell phones;
2) tablets, iPads and other similar computing devices (“computing devices”);
3) portable music and entertainment systems, such as iPods, MP3, & ear buds; and 4) smart watches, such as
Apple Watches.
Upon entry, cell phones and all other electronic devices must be placed in a Yondr Pouch in the presence of
school staff. These devices are subject to the following policies and procedures.

Morning Arrival:
● Students will turn off their phone and other electronic devices (including earbuds, smartwatches,
etc.) and place them in their secure Yondr pouch.
● Staff will lock the pouch, and students will carry it with them throughout the day.

During the Day:
● Students must not attempt to open or tamper with their Yondr pouch.
● Devices remain inaccessible until dismissal unless a documented exception is in place. We understand
there may be special cases (such as medical needs or family emergencies) that require a student to access their
phone during the day. Please contact the school to discuss any such needs so we can make the appropriate
arrangements.
● Devices may not be used or visible at any time on school property.
● Devices are not allowed in bathrooms, stairwells, or hallways for any purpose.
● Charging devices during school hours is not permitted.
● No devices may be used during tests, fire drills, or emergency exercises.
Dismissal:
● Staff will unlock pouches, and students may access their devices after leaving school grounds.

Violations:
● If a student is using their phone in violation of the above policies, staff will collect the phone/Pouch
and call home to notify the parent or guardian and arrange a meeting at the school. Any device used to
circumvent proper functioning of Yondr pouches is subject to confiscation.
● If a student forgets their Pouch, their phone will be collected and staff will call home to remind the
parent of the policy. The phone will be returned to the student at dismissal. If a student consistently forgets their
Pouch, it is considered lost. Lost or damaged pouches will incur a $30 replacement fee.
If you need to reach your child during the school day, please call the main office at 718-461-2219. Our staff will
promptly deliver any messages.

Please Note:
Special Circumstances: We understand there may be special cases (such as medical needs or family
emergencies) that require a student to access their phone during the day. Please contact the school to discuss any
such needs so we can make the appropriate arrangements.
We believe this change will help students be more present in their learning, strengthen face-to-face connections,
and build a more focused school community. We appreciate your support in making this transition smooth and
successful for everyone.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Thank you for partnering with us to make WJPS a place where students can thrive.