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Eastside students and parents say district halted student-run period-product drive; students demand reinstatement
Summary
Eastside High students and parents told the board on March 12 that a student-run program providing free menstrual products in campus restrooms was halted; students said the effort complied with state law and asked the district to reinstate the boxes.
Students and parents from Eastside High School told the Alachua County School Board on March 12 that a student-run program providing free menstrual products in campus restrooms has been halted and requested to know why.
Students and project leaders said the drive had operated since January 2024 after more than a year of planning with administrative support and outside funding. They said boxes were stocked regularly and widely used; student Graceland Duenas told the board that products were used and replenished weekly. Senior Sanabu Wajid said the program addressed student need and that the district's decision to halt the boxes came without a clear, direct explanation to the students who organized the effort.
Students and parents cited state law and recent updates — House Bill 389 and Florida Statute section 1006.064 — which they said encourage school districts to provide menstrual products and permit placing such products in restrooms. Organizers said their boxes contained no advertising, complied with the state statutes' requirements, and were supported by community grants and student fundraising.
District response and next steps: Boardmember Miss Surdon said district staff had indicated some interpretive concerns and that administrators would meet with students, principal and district staff to clarify the situation. Board members expressed particular concern after learning students said they had been threatened with disciplinary action; Surdon and other board members requested a direct meeting with the students to ensure transparency and a clear explanation.
What the students asked for: Students asked the board to explain why the program was halted and to reinstate the boxes so the program can continue. Students stressed that the boxes removed a barrier to attendance and dignity and that they were funded and maintained by student organizers and community partners.
What was not decided: The board did not reinstate the boxes at the March 12 meeting; board members asked staff to meet with the student organizers and report back.
