Five Christina Schools to Participate in Cell Phone Pilot Program

The Christina School District is glad to announce that five schools will participate in the Cell Phone Pilot Program, a new initiative funded by the Delaware Department of Education to help minimize distractions caused by cell phones during school hours.

Participating Schools

• Bayard School (grades 6-8)
• Gauger-Cobbs Middle School
• Kirk Middle School
• Shue-Medill Middle School
• Newark High School

As part of the program, students will begin their day by turning their phones off and placing them in a secure pouch. These pouches will remain with the students throughout the day, ensuring their devices are safely contained without distraction. At the end of the school day, the pouches can be unlocked at designated locations within the building.

Timeline - When Will It Start?
Starting in January 2026, schools will begin sending communications and rolling out the Cell Phone Pilot Program at the participating schools. The pilot will take place through the remainder of the school year. Please stay tuned for additional information from your child’s principal.

Survey - Let Us Know How You Feel About Cell Phone Use at Schools
Before we begin, we would like to receive feedback from our parents and students on cell phone use in schools and classrooms, as well as on cell phone pouches. Please share your thoughts, as your input will be invaluable as we move forward. This short survey will take less than 3 minutes to complete.

Click Here to Share Your Thoughts

We are grateful to the staff and students for their participation in this pilot program, which will help shape our procedures as we look to the future. Be on the lookout for additional communication in the coming months regarding the pilot program and recommendations.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How will the process work at arrival and dismissal?

Upon entering school, students will turn their phone off, place the phone inside the Yondr pouch, and lock it. Students will keep the locked pouches with them throughout the day. At the end of the school day, the pouches can be unlocked at multiple designated locations within the building.

Will my student’s phone be safe?

Phones never leave the possession of the students.

What if a student needs to leave the building before regular dismissal?

If a student needs to leave school early for an approved early dismissal, medical emergency, work assignment, athletic event, or other school-sponsored trip, students will be able to unlock their devices at school just before their departure. If returning to school during the instructional day, the Yondr pouch would be locked upon re-entry to the building.

What if a parent or guardian needs to reach their child during the school day?

We understand that emergencies will occur. Parents may contact the main office to speak with their child if the need arises. Also, high school students are able to receive email from outside the school district and have access to their Chromebooks throughout the day. Parents can email their students directly in addition to calling the school when time is of the essence. Students can communicate with one another using their Chromebooks as well.

What happens if there is an emergency at school?

Every school is equipped with phones that can dial 911. Our staff is trained to execute safety and emergency procedures. Students will follow the school’s emergency procedures in the case of an emergency. Schools will communicate with parents through the district’s mass notification and communication tools.

What if a student needs their personal device for a medical issue?

Students who have a documented medical condition and who need a personal device for monitoring their condition will be provided with a non-locking Yondr pouch that has a velcro seal.