Written by Jennifer Long (Parent – Opinion)
Since the start of the school year, High School students at Lehigh Senior High School have had to be escorted by school security to use the bathrooms during class. Between classes, with over 2,600 students, many cannot utilize this short time period to use the bathroom. Students and parents have been heard stating that in spite of the increase in security staff this year, students (some with documented disabilities) have had to wait up to 20 minutes for a staff response, but sometimes security staff does not even come at all to provide relief. This not only is unhealthy physically, but emotionally damaging as well. The need for child safety is understood, however not at the detriment of child health. UTI’s, bladder control problems, overstretching the bladder muscles, bowel obstruction or even kidney failure from bladder pressure or incontinence can occur from holding body waste for too long.
The need for the safety of students is understood, however, treating children like they have done something wrong by escorting them with security undermines good behaviors and encourages bad behaviors. In addition, how can our children perform well in school when all they can focus on is relieving oneself? This seems like cruel and unusual punishment for all children regardless of any behavioral issues. Allowing children to use the bathroom in a timely fashion is human dignity, not a luxury or privilege.
Please, reconsider or streamline your bathroom policy, as it’s in the best interests of our children.
Sign the petition Click here