Two Fort Smith middle schools to pilot phone-free environment

FORT SMITH, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA) — Fort Smith Public Schools announced on July 22 that Kimmons Middle School and Ramsey Middle School will pilot a phone-free environment.

According to a press release, the new initiative begins at the start of the 2024-25 school year.

The school system says this initiative was created to “enhance the learning environment” of its students.

The release says the schools will use Yondr pouches to store student phones during school hours. Students will only have access to their phones before and after the school day. They will still have their phones with them but will not use them until they are unlocked at the end of the school day. Students will be required to bring the pouches to and from school each day and are responsible for it at all times.

The release says in case of an emergency, parents can contact the school office and administration will make sure their children will promptly receive the message.

If a student is found using their phone during school hours, they will be disciplined appropriately, according to the school system.

Exceptions can be made for students with specific medical needs or other exceptional circumstances. The school system asks to contact the administration to discuss accommodation.

In case of an emergency, staff will direct students to safety first. Staff will be able to unlock the Yondr pouches in a matter of seconds, according to the release.

The school system ensures students’ phones will be safely stored in their backpacks. If a student damages a case, they may be responsible for the cost of replacing it.

The school system says cell phones have become a source of “distraction, antisocial behavior, and conflict.”

The release says phone-free environments can “improve classroom engagement, promote social interaction, and increase mental health.”

More information can be found here .

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.