The no restroom usage in the first and last 10 minutes is more hurtful than helpful

Jan Brito ’23

The no restroom usage in the first and last 10 minutes is more hurtful than helpful

Since last year, Derby High School has  implemented a rule where students can’t use the restroom in the first and last 10 minutes of class. DHS Administrators reason that in the first and last 10 minutes of class, students pay the most attention because in the first 10 minutes, the material is explained. In the last 10 minutes, the material is summed up, kind of like a recap. Often, homework is explained too. 

I’m sure we’ve all had an issue with not being allowed to use the restroom because of this rule. I can understand why this rule was implemented, but I don’t completely agree with it. While in class I’ve heard students complain about this rule, so I know I’m not the only one who is bothered by it. 

While I appreciate the administration’s concern for student’s education, I feel students, especially in high school,  are responsible for making the decision of  whether or not to pay attention in class. While this rule does force students to be more attentive in class, a student could doze off at any time in class, or simply choose to tune out. The real reason a student would pay attention in class is for their own benefit.

Why should this rule be abolished? This sort of treatment for high school students is not suggested. It makes the students feel like children which in turn puts them in a bad attitude, which impacts their learning negatively. Students are the ones who should take their education into consideration when thinking about using the restroom.