I am at the Southport 6th Grade Academy and I enjoy drinking water throughout the day. This year, a new rule prohibited us from carrying water bottles in classrooms and physical education classes. Following this drastic change as the Elementary schools encouraged us to drink lots of water, I experienced cramping, abdominal pain, and even difficulty walking due to dehydration, a condition I do not believe kids would enjoy. 

Water makes up about 75% of a human body and it's essential for our optimal health. Consistent hydration is known to facilitate cognitive function, physical performance and overall well-being among children. Dehydration, on the other hand, may lead to severe health complications such as liver problems, constipation, abdominal pain, cramps, or in some cases, it can result in failing to attend school for days (Kids health). 

The current alternatives, purchasing miniature bottles of water from the cafeteria's lunch offer, prove insufficient considering they barely meet our hydration needs and may impose an unnecessary financial burden on some students and families. Water fountains are provided, however, it could be questionable at best to drink because Indianapolis has one of the worst water qualities in the US.

Given the rationality behind our request and the seriousness of potential health hazards associated with dehydration, we kindly urge the Southport 6th Grade Academy's administration to reconsider their decision. This is not merely a matter of convenience, but rather a health concern that could affect the students' overall performance and wellbeing significantly. Stay on the side of student health, support us in allowing water bottles in classrooms and gym. Let our thirst for knowledge be quenched by proper hydration, not hampered by lack of it. Please, sign this petition and let us have our water bottles.