I recently found myself in a situation all too familiar for many girls at Evergreen Middle School. Just the other day, during a crucial learning period, I had an urgent need to rush to the restroom because I was bleeding through. Not only did this cause a great deal of discomfort and embarrassment, but it also took time away from my studies and disrupted the learning environment. I'm not alone in this experience; every girl in our school has faced the same issue or worries about when it might happen to them.

The simple solution to this problem is to provide free menstrual products in our school bathrooms. Menstrual products are as essential as toilet paper, soap, and paper towels, yet they are often overlooked. Statistics show that girls in schools without access to these products miss more school days, impacting their education and their confidence. According to a study by Plan International USA, 1 in 5 American girls have either left school early or stayed home entirely because they did not have access to period products. This is an unacceptable barrier to education.

Moreover, providing free menstrual products supports gender equality and creates a more inclusive learning environment. Our school policy should reflect the belief that all students deserve equal access to a learning environment where they can focus without the added stress or humiliation of being unprepared for their period.

Implementing this change is not only possible but vital. Schools across the country, such as those in New York and California, have already made the move to offer free menstrual products in restrooms. These programs have proven successful and have been applauded for their impact on improving attendance and academic performance.

I urge the administration at Evergreen Middle School and the Issaquah School District to prioritize this initiative. By doing so, we send a powerful message that we care about all aspects of our students' wellbeing and are committed to supporting their educational journey.

Please join me in signing this petition to demand immediate action to provide free menstrual products in all restrooms at Evergreen Middle School. Together, we can make a difference for every student at our school.