Dear Parents, Guardians, and Students,
As you may be aware by now, starting this school year, Hunter-Tannersville Middle/High School is implementing the use of YONDR pouches to support a focused and distraction-free learning environment. This initiative aligns with New York State’s efforts to create Distraction-Free Zones in schools.
What Is a YONDR Pouch?
The YONDR pouch is a secure, lockable case that holds a student’s phone and any smart device capable of linking to the internet (wi-fi) during the school day. Students keep their phones in their possession—but locked inside the pouch—until the end of the school day.
Pouch Distribution
Students will receive their personal YONDR pouch on Friday afternoon, September 5.
They will keep this pouch for the remainder of the school year and are expected to use them daily whenever they bring their phone or other electronics covered under NY Distraction Free mandate. The implementation of the pouches will start Monday, September 8.
Daily Expectations
Phones and any electronic device capable of linking to the internet (earbuds, smart watches, etc.) must be placed in the YONDR pouch upon arrival at school, before entering the building.
The pouch must stay locked and with the student during the day.
Pouches will be unlocked at dismissal using designated unlocking stations.
Tampering with, damaging, or forgetting the pouch may result in disciplinary action.
If a student needs to contact a parent or guardian during the day, they can request access to a school phone in the main office. In the event of an emergency, school staff will contact families immediately.
Parent & Guardian Support
We ask for your support in reinforcing the importance of this policy. If you need to reach your child during school hours, please call the main office at 518-589-5400 extension 1100.
Lost or Damaged Pouches
Students are responsible for their pouch. Lost or intentionally damaged pouches will result in a replacement fee of $25.00.
This initiative is not about punishment—it’s about creating space for students to focus, learn, and interact without constant digital distractions. We are confident this will have a positive impact on both academic performance and school culture.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at by phone at 518-589-5400 extension 1100 or by email (ivillafane@htcschools.org)
Thank you for your continued partnership in your child’s success.