A group of protesters gathered at Carbonear Collegiate yesterday to express their opposition to policies imposed in the school to keep the washrooms “safe and clean.”

The school administration has assigned staff to monitor areas outside the washrooms at the school in response to reported bullying, vaping and vandalism.

Protesters claim the measures go too far.

RCMP were called to the school, and asked the protesters to move their rally to the parking lot, which they did.

NL Schools says it is aware of the situation and if a staff member feels there is a need to enter the washroom, then it is done in a manner that respects the privacy and dignity of students.

In the meantime, NL Schools is encouraging the school community to engage with school staff in “appropriate” ways so that “administration can constructively address issues or concerns.” Under provincial legislation, schools are not public spaces and are not accessible without express or implied permission.

The Department says the Access to Health and Education Services Act, introduced during the pandemic, is also in place to prohibit interference and intimidation in or near health and educational facilities.