I’m a high school student and I believe that our recent school policy, enforced through  Minga , unfairly restricts our basic needs and autonomy. The new system limits us to only two bathroom visits per day during class time, with each visit capped at seven minutes. Additionally, we are only allowed one water break throughout the entire school day.

These restrictions are more than just inconvenient; they strip away our ability to make independent decisions about our personal well-being. Before the Minga system, students were trusted to manage their needs while maintaining their academic responsibilities. This trust was important to us not just as students, but as young adults. Many of us participate in sports and other extracurricular activities that increase our need for water and adequate bathroom breaks. Limiting our access is not only uncomfortable but potentially harmful.

Research shows that hydration is critical for cognitive function, and even mild dehydration can impair focus and learning. Moreover, holding it in because of strict bathroom policies can lead to various health issues such as urinary tract infections and kidney problems. These restrictions ignore these health risks and seem to prioritize control over student well-being.

Furthermore, setting such rigid limits implies that we lack the responsibility to gauge our own needs, which is both patronizing and detrimental to our development as independent individuals. High school is a time for us to develop the self-discipline and personal responsibility needed for adulthood. Policies like Minga’s do not support this developmental goal.

We fully understand that maintaining order and minimizing disruptions are legitimate concerns. However, these can be achieved through other methods that do not compromise our health and independence. For instance, reinforcing the importance of adopting a flexible hall pass system would be more practical.

Please join me in calling on our school administration to reconsider these policies and remove the Minga bathroom and water restrictions. Your signature can help us advocate for a more balanced approach that respects student autonomy while addressing administrative needs.