Students appreciate addition of gender neutral bathrooms in new high school

Gender neutral bathrooms are one of many additions to the new high school. 

The new high school boasts at least 18 accessible gender neutral locations, eight specifically for students, eight for staff and two gender neutral shower rooms. 

For students who are uncomfortable using the more public bathrooms, they enjoy the the privacy the gender neutral bathrooms have to offer. Sophomore Bryce Debord said, “I’ve always been harassed and uncomfortable with using the bathroom around other people, so having an alternative where I’m able to go helps with my anxiety and personal comfort.”

Senior Olivia Barfelt also said the new facilities are a benefit. “Even though I’m cis, I enjoy the gender neutral bathrooms. It’s nice to have an option that’s more private than the regular bathrooms.” 

Senior Ava Adams is another fan of the addition of gender neutral locations. “I’ve always found gender neutral bathrooms useful when it comes to either needing a safe space regarding your body or your gender identity. They’re open for everyone, giving not only the transgender community at Cedar Falls High School a spot to be if they want, but it’s for anybody who may need a bit of privacy.”

The NIC (the National Institute of Health) said the point of gender neutral restrooms is to give an option to those uncomfortable with regular public restrooms, and gender neutral bathrooms are an alternative that benefits diverse identities.

“There’s nothing wrong with a third option; one is done, two is done, three is better,” Adams said.