I am a student at Roach Middle School and I face a daily ordeal that you shouldn't have to. Our school's bathrooms are in an unacceptable state - unclean to the point of being horrifying. Finding poop, pee or even a dead cockroach is not a rare sight. It's far from the clean environment that children need and deserve to maintain their health and hygiene.

There is even graffiti in the bathrooms! Vulgar graffiti in the Roach Middle School bathrooms is detrimental for several reasons. First, it creates an uncomfortable and unwelcoming environment for students, which can contribute to a negative school atmosphere. Such imagery and language can also be offensive or triggering for some individuals, impacting their sense of safety and belonging. Additionally, allowing this type of vandalism to persist sends a message that disrespectful behavior is tolerated, undermining the values of respect and responsibility that schools strive to instill. It distracts students from the learning environment and can lead to further disciplinary issues.

Research suggests that a grossly maintained washroom can be a breeding ground for bacteria and pathogens, impacting not just our comfort, but also our health. Moreover, a 2012 study from the US National Institutes of Health highlights the importance of clean school environments in student academic performance and overall well-being.

We urge the school administration to hire more janitors for bathroom maintenance and ensure rigorous and regular cleaning. It's time to turn these grim places into clean, safe spaces that reflect the dignity of our school. Please sign this petition to push for a necessary change in Roach Middle School.