MORE than 300 people have signed an online petition protesting the apparent removal of nearly all student toilet facilities at New Norfolk High School. Comments on social media, supported by video and photos, state that upon returning to school this week, it was found that most toilets had been removed, leaving only one functioning cubicle per gender per grade.
It has been speculated that the removal of the toilets was an attempt to stop smoking in the toilet cubicles. Doors have also been removed from the now non-functional cubicles.
In a Facebook post, Derwent Valley Council mayor Michelle Dracoulis said she was aware of the concerns and would be contacting the school today.
“Our kids have a human right to access bathroom facilities when they need them. I understand there will be reasons the school has taken this step, but there needs to be another way found to address those issues,” Cr Dracoulis said.
The Mercury is covering the story here. Commenting on that article, Cr Dracoulis said the situation was unacceptable. “The DVC general manager will be meeting with the school on Tuesday – Monday is a public holiday,” she said.
The Education Department has been asked to comment.
One Comment
Who is the clown that came up with this 1950’s brainstorm ?