Chatham County Schools -

Phones Down = Focus Up at Chatham County Schools!

We’re seeing how digital distractions can steal attention and disrupt classroom rhythm, but U.S. research shows there’s a better way:

👉77% of U.S. public schools already restrict phones during class, and over half of school leaders report phones hurt academic performance and focus. (ICS)
👉Two-thirds of Americans believe all-day phone bans improve social skills, grades, and behavior. (Pew Research Center)
👉Parent-led movements nationwide — from Vermont to coast — are driving phone-free school policies, citing real improvements in academic engagement and mental health. (TIME)

Our Yondr Pouch Program aligns with this evidence — intentionally steering students toward focused learning and better social interaction.

Want the full scoop? Check out our website: https://www.chatham.k12.nc.us/page/yondr-pouch-pilot-program

#ONEChatham

Today, teachers from Pre-K through high school engaged in professional learning to elevate classroom practices for the year ahead. We can’t wait to welcome students back on Tuesday next week!
#ONEChatham

📱 Got questions about Yondr Pouches? We’ve got answers!

Check out our Yondr FAQs to learn how the program works, why we’re using it, and what it means for your student.

🔗 http://bit.ly/3HE2eUG

Last year, out-of-school suspensions were down by 16% at Yondr Pouch Program implementation sites! We are expanding the program, and all high schools and middle schools weill implement Yondr Pouches during the 2025-2026 school year.

Learn more about the Yonder Pouch Program here: https://www.chatham.k12.nc.us/page/yondr-pouch-pilot-program

📱 Chatham County Schools is committed to creating focused, distraction-free learning environments. As part of this effort, we’re expanding our Yondr Pouch Program to all middle and high schools.

📄 Read the full Yondr Pouch Guidelines here: https://bit.ly/ccs_yondr_guidelines

Together, we can support student success by limiting cell phone distractions during instructional time! 💙
#OneChatham

🎓 Attention CCS Seniors! The Gates Scholarship is Now Open!

The Gates Scholarship (TGS) is a highly selective, full-cost scholarship for outstanding high school seniors from low-income households. Each year, this incredible opportunity is awarded to exceptional student leaders to help them achieve their highest potential — without the burden of college costs.

📅 Application window: July 15 – September 15, 2025 (2:00 PM PT)
🌐 Learn more & apply: www.thegatesscholarship.org

Let’s make sure Chatham County students are represented among this year’s recipients! 💙

#OneChatham #Scholarship

✏️ Once an educator, always an educator. Members of the Retired Teachers Association met with Superintendent Dr. Anthony Jackson to continue their collaboration with Chatham County Schools. Their passion for education and our students never fades, and we appreciate them more than words can say. #OneChatham

📚 Over the past several weeks, our K–3 Power Scholars have been busy strengthening their reading skills, building confidence, and making new friends at Pittsboro and Virginia Cross Elementary. We celebrated all their hard work, and we’re so grateful to the Chatham County YMCA for partnering with us to help students elevate their reading skills. #OneChatham