My daughter is a student at Woodbury JR/SR High School that has recently adopted the Yondr program. This program requires students to lock their mobile phones in pouches during school hours. This policy was implemented without prior information or consent form being sent to parents. 

While I understand the intention may be to minimize distractive behavior during school hours, it also takes away an important safety tool from our children. In the unfortunate event of a crisis, such as the recent surge in school shootings across the nation, locked phones can prevent students from contacting 911 or their families, which could be potentially lifesaving.

As a matter of fact, according to a study conducted by the Pew Research Center, 95% of teens have access to a smartphone and 80% of teenagers have used their cellphone to contact 911 in the event of a true emergency. These devices have become an essential life-support system, especially during emergencies.

Given the potential risk, it is crucial that schools involve parents in the decision-making process for such significant changes. We, the school community, deserve a voice and have the right to demand transparency and the choice to opt-out from such programs if we feel they jeopardize our children's safety.

We must ensure the safety of our children and their rights. Therefore, I urge you to sign this petition demanding the Woodbury City School District provide complete transparency on the Yondr program and send consent forms to parents. Together, we can ensure that this kind of decision-making process remains democratic and is in the best interest of our students.