Starting in the 2025-26 school year, New York State implemented a new law for a “distraction free learning environment,” and Orchard Park High School decided to comply with this law by using YONDR pouches; considering this is brand new for all of us, we touched base with some OP teachers, parents, and most importantly students to get their opinions on this new system.
We asked Mr. Hunter if what we’ve seen so far was how they expected the student body to react to this new system.
“I was expecting a little bit more resistance, I suppose, but I guess [students] are all kind of embracing it… This is such a new policy in place that we [didn’t] know how [students] would handle it, but as of right now, you guys are doing a really good job. I think we need to see how things go, and we will make adjustments as needed,” said Mr. Hunter.
Ms. Rodemeyer agreed. “I thought it would be more traumatic than it was. I think the kids came ready to do it and to give it a chance. I expected a little bit more pushback, but I feel like the kids were ready for it. I’m really proud of how they adjusted.”
An OP parent offered a different perspective, saying, “I have mixed emotions. Though I am supportive of distraction-free learning, it’s challenging as a parent to adjust to the lack of communication [with our kids] that we have become accustomed to over the last few years.”
Most importantly, we concluded by speaking with the OPHS students, asking, “If you could change anything about the YONDR pouch system we have, what would it be and why?”
“I think it would be better to get rid of them, and if the teachers see your phone during class, then they just keep it for the rest of the period. Why? Because I feel more secure with freedom, and if something happens, then I won’t be able to contact anyone,” said Brianna Moore.
It is important to note that the NYS Distraction Free Environment law requires schools to provide students with access to outside communication, and every classroom and office has phone access, which students can use when needed.
We also asked a couple of STAP Comm members what they would change and why.
River Rowsell, the Class of 2028 Treasurer, said if she could change something about it, she would like to “unlock and re-lock the pouches in between classes, lunch, and study hall if [she] wanted.”
When asked the same question, Ariana Kovacevic, the Class of 2028 Vice President, said, “I would rather have an Apple Watch, because I’m so lost with time…then I could actually know the time. I would rather not have the pouch system. I might as well leave [the phone] at home, unless I’m staying after school.”
Students should also understand that the phone ban is not just an OP rule, but is a NYS law that says students are not to have access to their personal, internet-connected devices from bell to bell.
Overall, students, teachers, and parents have mixed feelings about the new YONDR pouch system at Orchard Park. While many students are adjusting and teachers are proud of how everyone is handling it, some students and parents find it frustrating or limiting. As the school continues to see how it works, it will be interesting to see what changes, if any, are made.
