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St Leo’s Catholic College in Wahroonga has taken steps to enhance supervision of student bathroom use following reports of vandalism and questionable choices in the newly renovated facilities. Parents were informed of these measures through a recent newsletter.
Assistant principal Patrick Brennan outlined in the newsletter that the school has implemented several strategies to tackle this troubling trend. One such approach includes monitoring students’ bathroom access during class time, a decision prompted by an observed increase in such incidents.
The trial of tracking bathroom visits has reportedly yielded valuable insights, aiding discussions with students and their parents. The school believes this data is crucial for addressing the issue effectively.
However, Brennan noted that some parents and carers might find the notifications sent to their phones unnecessary or even irritating. Despite this, the school emphasizes the importance of keeping all parties informed as they work towards a solution.
Brennan acknowledged that parents and carers may find the alerts sent directly to their phones “unnecessary or even frustrating”.
“It was certainly not our intention to cause concern or suggest that a single bathroom visit is problematic,” he said.
“Rather, it is hoped, and we are already seeing evidence, that the trial is encouraging students to use the bathrooms at times during the day when supervision is present and better decisions are being made.”
In a statement following the initial newsletter, St Leo’s Catholic College principal Tony Gleeson reiterated that the cameras are only located “in external and publicly accessible areas such as playgrounds and entry and exit points”.
“Their purpose is to support the safety of students and staff, deter unsafe behaviour, and assist in maintaining a secure school environment,” Gleeson said.
“No cameras have ever been placed in private or sensitive areas such as bathrooms, and all practices fully comply with Catholic Schools Broken Bay policies and relevant privacy legislation.”
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