The previous bathroom pass system was straightforward: students signed out on a paper sheet, left their phones behind, took a hall pass, and went about their business. There were no strict time constraints, no tracking of restroom visits, and if the nearest bathroom was unavailable, you could easily access another. Now, however, a new bathroom system has been implemented, and the restrictions are overwhelming. Here's what has changed:

1. Bathroom use is now limited to your designated wing only.
2. Students must download an app or register on their Chromebooks to access the bathroom pass.
3. You can only be out of class for FIVE MINUTES; some classes allow eight minutes, creating an unfair discrepancy among students.
4. Phones still need to stay in class, which means no way to time your restroom visit.
5. Students are limited to using the restroom only twice per day.
6. Your teacher can monitor your bathroom usage.
7. Security also has access to track your restroom visits.
8. You may be blocked from entering the restroom if a friend is using it, even if they're in a different classroom.
9. Detention may be imposed if you exceed the 5-8 minute window.

Every student at La Mirada High School is now navigating these stringent restrictions. We are expected to time our bathroom visits perfectly while under constant surveillance. This invasion of our privacy and comfort is unacceptable, especially for those with medical conditions requiring more frequent restroom access. It is unrealistic to expect teenagers to make it to the bathroom and back in five minutes and not need to go again.

I understand that this new system aims to prevent students from skipping class, but it feels unjust to penalize nearly 2,000 students for the actions of just a few who are misusing the bathroom privileges. If we do not advocate against this oppressive system, it will remain in place. Ben Webster must understand that our basic right to use the bathroom cannot be curtailed. It is crucial for us to unite and assert our needs and rights. Together, we can challenge this unjust system.