A Basic Right Being Denied
Students at South High School and across Bakersfield are facing a troubling problem: locked restrooms during school hours.
This isn't just an inconvenience - it's a serious health and dignity issue that affects all students.
What's happening right now:
Schools are locking restrooms during class time
Security often fails to check if students are inside before locking
Students have been trapped in locked bathrooms
Students must wait for someone with a key to use restrooms
A Mother Speaks Out
A mother of a student who attends South High School, recently shared her daughter's experience:
"After my daughter used the restroom, she faced a threat from the Dean of Students to be sent home for the day. This was an extreme response to a basic need."
During her talk with school staff, the mother was told she could get a 504-plan for her daughter to use restrooms without punishment. But should any student need special permission for something as basic as using the bathroom?
The mother points out a troubling pattern: "A few mothers are considering getting medical recommendations for restroom accommodations. With all of the students facing these issues being Black, the situation is starting to seem almost discriminatory."
This Affects Everyone
This isn't just one family's problem. We're hearing from more parents and students every day. These locked bathroom policies:
Create health risks for all students
Particularly harm students with medical conditions
Force students to choose between their health and following rules
Cause unnecessary anxiety and stress
Violate school district policies on restroom accessibility
Negatively impacts school climate
Increases chronic student absenteeism
Join Our Movement for Change
Every student deserves dignity, respect, and access to basic necessities at school.
We Demand:
Keep all student restrooms open during school hours
If security checks are needed, ensure thorough checks before locking
Create a clear bathroom access policy that respects student needs
Set up an emergency system for students who get trapped
How You Can Help:
Sign our petition: Add your name to show our school district that our community stands together on this issue.
Share your story: Has your child experienced bathroom access issues at school?
Your experience matters and strengthens our case. Comment below or contact us directly:
Email: Julie@communityinter.org
Spread the word: Share this post with other parents, students, and community members who care about student dignity and rights.
You're Not Alone
If your child has faced similar treatment, we want to hear from you. Together, our voices are stronger. No student should fear punishment for meeting a basic human need.
Sign our petition today and help ensure every Bakersfield student has the respect and dignity they deserve.
Together, we can make our schools safer and more respectful places for all students.
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