Dear Principal Kevin McCaskill and Ms. Nicole McLaren,

We, the students of Brockton High School, are writing to express our deep concerns about the mandatory use of Yondr pouches. While we understand the desire to minimize distractions, the negative consequences of this policy are significant and harmful to our overall well-being.

Firstly, the Yondr pouches pose a safety risk during emergencies. In situations where immediate communication with family or authorities is crucial, our inability to access our phones could have serious consequences. This is particularly concerning given the increasing need for quick communication in the event of emergencies, both big and small. Furthermore, if family members need to reach us for minor yet important reasons, we are forced to leave class and go to the office, disrupting our learning and adding unnecessary stress to our day.

Our phones are not just distractions; they are lifelines that help us manage our mental health and stay connected with those who support us. During free periods like lunch or study halls, having access to our phones allows us to relax, unwind, and recharge. Taking this away ignores the pressures we face and denies us a simple tool that helps maintain our mental health. This added stress, combined with the worry of missing important communications, makes our school environment even more challenging and distracts us from focusing on our studies.

The consequences tied to the use of Yondr pouches are also excessive and unfair. A $40 fee for a damaged pouch is a significant burden, especially for students who may already be facing financial difficulties. Moreover, the policy of suspending students after forgetting their pouch at home three times is harsh and does not consider the genuine reasons why such a mistake might happen. This approach not only punishes us unfairly but also creates an environment of fear rather than support.

There are also practical issues with the pouches themselves. Since they all look the same, there is a real risk of students accidentally taking someone else's pouch, leading to conflicts and added stress. This lack of security only adds to our concerns about the policy.

In light of these points, we believe that the Yondr policy is detrimental to our safety, mental health, and overall school experience. By enforcing these restrictions, the school is overlooking our needs and creating an environment where we feel unsupported and disconnected.

We ask you to reconsider this policy and work with us to find alternative solutions that respect our needs while maintaining a focused learning environment. We hope for your understanding and look forward to a positive resolution that prioritizes the well-being of all students at Brockton High School.

**Sincerely,**  
The Students of Brockton High School