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Everett School Committee refers new Everett High restroom-access policy to rules committee after concerns about student access
Summary
The Everett School Committee discussed a new trial restroom policy at Everett High School — closing bathrooms during the first and last 10 minutes of class — heard concerns about bodily autonomy and lunch‑period access, and voted to refer a written policy to the rules, policy and procedure subcommittee for review.
The Everett School Committee on Sept. 15 debated a new restroom-access practice at Everett High School that closes bathrooms during the first and last 10 minutes of class. Committee members praised efforts to reduce restroom-related damage and hallway congregating but raised sustained concerns about student access, menstrual needs and the impact during short lunch periods.
Miss Babcock introduced the item seeking clarity on the district’s current practices and said constituents had asked for written guidance in the student handbook. ‘‘Bodily autonomy is kind of important,’’ she said, noting that the committee’s 3‑minute class changes and the policy’s 10‑minute closures could present problems for some students and may be embarrassing for those who must request permission.
Everett High School Principal Braga told the committee the rule is a trial intended to improve transitions and safety: "It's the first 10 minutes and the last 10 minutes," he said, adding that the first floor restrooms remain open and staff will open bathrooms on request. Braga described the mechanism as a gate that success coaches on each floor lock and unlock; he said staff monitor lines and can temporarily redirect students to other floors to ease congestion.
Several members pressed for specifics about supervision and lunchtime logistics. Members noted lunch periods are short and expressed concern that routing students between floors could cost students time to eat. Braga said success coaches and administrators are monitoring the trial and that the procedure will be spelled out in weekly communications.
After extended questioning, Miss Babcock moved to refer the matter to the rules, policy and procedure subcommittee so the committee could review and consider a formal written policy in the handbook; the motion passed. The committee directed administration to provide a written policy for the subcommittee’s review and to report back with monitoring data.
The committee excused Principal Braga with customary thanks at the conclusion of his appearance. The rules subcommittee will next determine whether to recommend handbook language or alternative adjustments to the trial practice.
