My name is Athena, I'm a student in the Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), The message I'm trying to get out is about Yondr pouches. These pouches, used to lock up students' phones during the school day, cause undue distress for those of us dealing with personal mental health issues and exacerbate fears among parents, like my mom, who worry about their children's safety.

Incessant news of school shootings nationwide sends waves of panic among us and our families. In case of emergencies like these or even natural disasters like earthquakes, having immediate access to our phones is not just a convenience but a necessity. Mental health is becoming an increasingly pertinent issue among teenagers, with the prevalence of severe depressive episodes among U.S children increasing from 5.9% in 2004 to 8.2% in 2017 [According to the National Institute of Mental Health]. For some of these students, their phones contain vital coping mechanisms.

Hence, we propose a reconsideration of the policy concerning Yondr pouches in LAUSD schools. We're not advocating for an unrestricted usage of phones, but for a more flexible and considerate approach to tackle distractions while upholding our mental health and safety.

Please sign this petition to support us in our quest for a safer and more considerate approach towards the use of technology in our schools.