CELL PHONE BAN 2025

Date: July 16, 2025

Dear Bedford Academy Families,

We hope this message finds you well. At Bedford Academy, we are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and academically focused environment for all students. In accordance with New York State law and Department of Education guidance, we are reinforcing our “Bell to Bell” Cell Phone Ban, and beginning in the Fall 2025 term, we will be strictly enforcing the use of Yondr pouches during all instructional hours.

Yondr Pouches: Stricter Enforcement Starting Fall 2025

While Yondr pouches have already been in use at Bedford Academy, we have seen the need to reinforce their proper and consistent use. Starting this fall, all students will be required to lock their phones in Yondr pouches at the beginning of the school day and keep them secured until dismissal — without exception.

How the Policy Works:

· Students must place their phones in their assigned Yondr pouch upon entering the building.

· Pouches will be locked and remain in students' possession throughout the instructional day.

· Pouches will only be unlocked at designated stations at the end of the school day.

· Unauthorized unlocking, tampering, or misuse of Yondr pouches will result in disciplinary action.

Why This Matters:

This effort supports a more focused and respectful learning environment. Mobile phones — even when not in use — create distractions, social challenges, and unnecessary stress during the school day. Strict Yondr enforcement will help:

· Eliminate classroom distractions

· Prevent social media conflicts and cyberbullying during school hours

· Support student mental health and academic performance

Communication During the School Day:

We understand that communication between students and families is important. If a student needs to contact a parent or guardian during the school day, they are welcome to use the phone in the main office. Likewise, parents and guardians may call the school if they need to reach their child, and a staff member will assist as needed.

Accountability:

· Students are responsible for bringing and properly using their Yondr pouches daily.

· Lost or damaged pouches must be reported and may incur a replacement fee.

· Multiple violations will result in further disciplinary action and parent conferences.

We Need Your Support:

We ask all families to reinforce the importance of this policy with their children. When school is distraction-free, students thrive — academically, socially, and emotionally.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact the school administration.

Thank you for your continued partnership in supporting a focused, safe, and high-achieving learning environment at Bedford Academy.

Sincerely,

Adofo A. Muhammad Ed.D

Principal, Bedford Academy High School