Written by: Esther Emeadi and Chelsea Yang
School bathrooms play an important role in students’ daily lives, yet, a handful of KCI students have expressed concerns when it comes to accessibility, respect, and comfort. Some students have communicated to The Edge that access to proper hygiene products, respectful use of facilities, and maintaining adequate cleanliness are key to creating a positive school environment. When bathrooms are neglected or misused, it can affect students’ comfort, health, and respect for the school's community. Bringing these issues to the forefront helps promote responsibility and equality among students.
Various students have recently explained to The Edge that feminine hygiene products are often missing from bathrooms. One grade ten student, Isabella Perez, expressed her frustration about having “to take a tampon from the library, walk out, all while everybody stared” at her. Other female-identifying students shared similar experiences, feeling embarrassed or singled out for something completely natural.
Another student interviewed expressed that “no student should have to choose between their comfort and basic needs.” Therefore, “the school board should ensure that dispensers are regularly stocked with safe and reliable female hygiene products.” If the school enforces this regulation, the student suggested that it would set an example for future generations to value inclusivity and respect.
Students have also voiced their concerns about others skipping class and vaping or smoking in the bathrooms. Alex Francis, a grade ten student, explained, “I think it’s very disruptive and disgraceful. It’s not what bathrooms are meant for. You are underage, and you should not be smoking, as it hurts yourself and the air quality. And it affects your brain growth.”
The school bathrooms were described as “dirty” by Alessandra Stoicescu, another grade ten student. Many students interviewed agreed that “the bathroom is not a good place to skip class.”
In response to concerns expressed by students, the KCI administration provided clarification and explained the consequences for not adhering to policies related to bathroom issues. KCI principal, Ms. Martin, said to The Edge that KCI staff are “happy to say that we have period products in all of our washrooms.” She mentioned that there are “signs that have been put up to say that the dispensers have the products available, because we know that having access is important, and so they are in all of the female washrooms.”
This response from Ms. Martin clarifies the placement of period products in washrooms. This setup is meant to ensure that students can access necessary products without disruption. Ms. Martin further noted, “we weren’t sure if the products would fit in the dispensers.” However, on previous occasions, the dispensers were filled with the same products.
In response to student concerns regarding vaping and disruptive activity in bathrooms, Ms. Martin explained that during her “regular hallway checks,” she has “not seen any students vaping,” but the school “continues to enforce code of conduct and expectations.”
When discussing students skipping class, Ms. Martin noted that students “should be in class,” and the administration focuses first on “understanding why a student is not attending before moving toward consequences if the behaviour repeats.”
When learning about bathrooms being described as “dirty” by KCI students, Ms. Martin was “sorry to hear that” and mentioned she would “follow up with the custodial crew, who often work shorthanded, but are committed to keeping the school clean.” Ms. Martin communicated that students should feel supported, while knowing the administration is working to maintain a safe and clean bathroom environment.
Overall, school bathrooms are more than just facilities; they are spaces that reflect a school's respect, equity, and care, ensuring that bathrooms are clean, safe, and properly stocked, benefiting every student and supporting a positive learning environment.