California — A California educator is facing severe backlash after allegations surfaced that he awarded additional academic points to students who chose to forgo bathroom breaks during class hours. The controversy emerged when a concerned parent took to social media to highlight the unconventional and stringent bathroom policy implemented by her daughter’s math teacher, igniting widespread public debate.
In a viral post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on September 5, a mother revealed that her daughter’s teacher at a local school permits only one bathroom pass per week. She further alleged that students who refrain from using this pass are rewarded with extra academic credit. Expressing her frustration, the mother stated, “I am livid,” although she did not specify her daughter’s age. Her daughter, however, finds the policy overly strict, remarking, “But my daughter is mad that I want to email the teacher and CC the principal. Am I wrong here?”
The post quickly garnered immense attention, amassing over 16 million views and sparking intense discussions among social media users. Many parents voiced their concern, sharing similar experiences and criticizing the teacher’s approach. One commenter mentioned that her daughter was compelled to hold her need to use the restroom for the last 30 minutes of class, raising alarms about the potential health risks associated with such policies.
“This kind of policy is not only unfair but also harmful to students’ well-being,” one parent commented. The widespread outrage has led to calls for immediate action against the teacher, with many advocating for stricter regulations to protect students’ rights and health.
This incident sheds light on the extreme measures some educators may take, raising questions about the balance between maintaining classroom discipline and ensuring students’ basic needs are met. Experts suggest that schools should implement more compassionate and flexible policies that prioritize student health and comfort without compromising educational outcomes.
In a related case highlighting the issue of harsh disciplinary practices in schools, Abhishek Patel, a math teacher at Madhav Public School in Vatva, Ahmedabad, was recently apprehended for physically assaulting a student. CCTV footage revealed Patel slamming a student against a wall and pulling his hair multiple times, ultimately knocking him to the ground. Following directives from the District Education Officer, the school has suspended Patel, and he is currently in custody with legal proceedings underway.
These incidents underscore the critical need for effective oversight and accountability in educational institutions to prevent abuse and ensure a safe and supportive learning environment for all students.
