FISD’s current cellphone policy, which the board of trustees approved in May, states “devices must either be left at home or secured using the designated school-issued locking system for the duration of the school day.”
The district is using YONDR pouches, which are magnetic lockable phone pouches, for the first time this school year.
The gist
Ryan Kopp, FISD’s assistant superintendent of secondary teaching and learning, said Friendswood High School and Friendswood Junior High School are seeing the following positive changes:
- Improved teaching and learning
- Stronger student engagement
- Positive social interactions
- Better school culture
- Equity and support
Based on teacher feedback from a survey conducted by FISD officials, about 90% of teachers agree or strongly agree that YONDR pouches have reduced cellphone distractions in class.
FHS, on the other hand, saw referrals nearly double—from over 60 in November 2024 to almost 120 in November 2025. Officials noted this rise is a “positive sign” for the policy, as it reflects stricter and more consistent enforcement rather than an increase in actual misconduct.
These referrals include all electronic devices that were confiscated, such as smartwatches and earbuds, Kopp said.
Nearly 80% of teachers believe the cellphone policy is being carried out consistently, the survey shows.
“It's been a total game changer,” FJH Principal Delaney Lyon said. “Morale has lifted with teachers not feeling like we're having to constantly police it and ... fight for attention from the kids. It's become an accepted part of our culture.”
