William Tennant High students demand access to locked bathrooms during school hours

In a poignant moment at the Centennial School District's recent board meeting, students from William Tennent High School voiced their frustrations over restricted bathroom access, shedding light on a pressing issue that has sparked concern among both students and parents. As the evening unfolded, four students took the opportunity to speak, their testimonies revealing the challenges they face daily due to locked restrooms during school hours and after school activities.

Bridal Corcoran, speaking on behalf of her classmate Cindy Tufill, shared a troubling experience faced by the girls' softball team. With all their coaches being male, the team is denied access to the girls' locker room, forcing them to change in public areas or their cars. "We should not be denied to use the bathroom whether we are changing for sports or other reasons," Corcoran emphasized, highlighting the broader implications for student athletes and the entire school body.

Tessa Pugnetti, another senior, passionately addressed the board about the health risks and logistical challenges posed by the locked bathrooms. She recounted instances where she was unable to access a restroom when needed, leading to significant discomfort and disruption of her learning. "I should not have to worry about when or if I can use the bathroom in my school," she stated, urging the board to reconsider the current policies that restrict access.

The students explained that the cafeteria restroom, the only one available after school, often becomes overcrowded, leading to long waits and further complicating their schedules. Pugnetti proposed alternative solutions, such as increased supervision in bathrooms to deter misbehavior rather than punishing all students by locking the facilities.

Board members, including Dr. Benning, expressed their commitment to investigating the situation further. "We will look into talking to the administration," he assured the students, acknowledging that this was the first time they had heard of such issues. The board's willingness to engage with the students' concerns marks a crucial step towards addressing the challenges faced by the student body.

As the meeting concluded, the students left behind a petition signed by nearly half of their peers, advocating for the right to access bathrooms freely during school hours. Their voices, filled with urgency and determination, resonated throughout the room, reminding everyone present of the importance of listening to the needs of students and fostering an environment where they can thrive both academically and personally. The outcome of this meeting could pave the way for significant changes in school policy, ensuring that all students have the basic right to access restroom facilities without undue barriers.