New high school principal explains cell phone policy

Students will seal their phones in Yondr pouches throughout the school day.

In a letter to parents and community members, Eric Harper introduced himself as the new McKeesport Area High School principal, while informing them of the school’s updated cell phone policy.

At the start of the 2024-25 school year, students will not be allowed to use cell phones in school. When students enter school each day, they must place their cell phones in a Yondr pouch.

Many school districts across the nation have implemented the use of Yondr pouches. The Yondr pouch locks and unlocks with the touch of a special magnet. The pouches have the capacity to contain a cell phone, smart watch and earbuds.

Students will remain in possession of their phone and Yondr pouch throughout the school day.

At the end of each day, the pouches will be unlocked at designated stations.

“We believe that phones have great utility. We have also found that learning and social behavior improve drastically when students are fully engaged with their teachers and classmates,” Harper wrote.

In May, the McKeesport Area School Board approved the $60,100 purchase of 2,200 Yonder pouches for the high school and middle school.

“Our purpose for this is to reduce the distraction, any bullying or anything during the school day,” Director Matthew Keller said during the May 15 board meeting.

According to Yondr, 83% of schools that utilize the company’s pouches report an improvement in student engagement.

Harper joined the McKeesport Area School District after spending several years as a principal for the Duquesne City School District. Harper is also a MAHS graduate.

“As a proud former graduate of this very institution, I am thrilled to return to the halls that shaped my educational journey,” Harper said. “My journey through McKeesport instilled in me a deep appreciation for the dedication and spirit that defines our school community. It is with great enthusiasm that I look forward to meeting and working with all of you — students, parents, and community members — to continue building a vibrant and supportive learning environment.”