The Cohoes City School District will be hosting a meeting about the adoption of the new state-mandated “bell to bell” ban on personal electronics devices and the implementation of the Yondr Program. In compliance with this state mandate, Cohoes Middle School and Cohoes High School will implement the Yondr Program on the first day of school. This initiative will make our schools device-free spaces, fostering a focused and engaging classroom experience for all students.
Families are invited to attend an informative meeting at 6 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 18 at the middle school library. Cohoes Chief of Police Todd Waldin, Superintendent of Schools Peggy O’Shea, CHS Principal Laura Tarlo and CMS Principal Heather Bradt will provide important details about the policy, how the Yondr Program works, and answer any questions you may have. We encourage all families to attend as we prepare for this transition in the 2025-2026 school year.
You can read the full policy here.
About the Yondr Program
The Yondr Program uses secure pouches to store devices. Upon arrival at school, students will place their personal electronics devices (smart phones, smart watches and wireless earbuds) in their assigned Yondr pouch, which they will keep with them throughout the day. The pouches will remain locked until the end of the school day, ensuring that devices are not used during school hours. Students are responsible for bringing their Yondr pouch to and from school daily, and pouches will be distributed during the first two days of school.
Benefits of the Yondr Program
Research and feedback from schools that have implemented the Yondr Program highlight its positive impact:
- 86% reported improved student safety and wellness.
- 84% observed increased student engagement.
- 72% noted better student behavior.
- 68% saw enhanced academic performance.