Windsor, Martinsville School Districts going phone-free for the 2025-2026 school year

(WAND) - Windsor and Martinsville School Districts are implementing phone-free policies for this school year.

The districts said the goal is to enhance student focus and well being.

In partnership with the Regional Office of Education #11, both districts have invested in secure phone storage solutions.

Windsor School District will use Yondr pouches, magnetically sealed fabric pouches that securely lock students' phones during school hours, preventing access.

Martinsville School District will use NuKase hard cases, tamper-resistant storage units designed to keep phones safe and support the district's no-phone policy.

Both systems will allow phones to be unlocked via a magnetic device at the end of the school day.

This comes after months of discussions with school boards, parents, and students.

"Our goal is to boost student engagement and reduce disciplinary issues related to cell phone use," said Windsor Superintendent Erik VanHoveln.

Martinsville Superintendent Bob Waggoner said, "We are committed to creating an optimal learning environment that prioritizes student safety and academic success."