This vent is going to sound lame and selfish, but I'm at a new school this year and I've discovered through colleagues that I have less planning time than they do. I love this school, my administration, students, and staff. I just have a hard time following a schedule that regularly interferes with some of my basic physical needs (bathroom issues).

Prior to teaching here, I taught for several years in a public school in a different state. We had a strong union with vocal leadership, and equity among staff (especially with regards to class sizes and schedules) was priority. Any inequity, it seemed, was immediately filed as a grievance, especially among veteran teachers.

My current school is a very good charter with a positive climate, however I have eighty fewer minutes of planning each week due to a complication with a student schedule. They were not able to place the student into another section of the same course, because it conflicted with other courses in the schedule. The student is wonderful, so my vent is completely unrelated to student behavior. It's just that I often need to use the bathroom and/or respond to time sensitive emails, and I have literally no breaks in the afternoon. I'm sorry if this sounds pretty...I just needed to get it out to a group of people who can relate...

Should I discuss this equity issue with administration, or continue to "just make it work"?

[annie_g]

I would ask that someone cover for you for short break in the afternoon at the least.

[panther1987]

I am not usually one to protest but if you don't, this kind of thing may continue. I think you should at least bring it to the attention of administration if they don't already know.

[MissESL]

I would check with a colleague who may have an afternoon planning time to see if they can cover your class so you can go to the restroom.

I think all you can do is ask. I have a medical issue (kidney transplant) that means I need regular bathroom breaks throughout the day. I approached my administrator about placing my prep time strategically to ensure that I had the opportunity to go to the restroom. I switched PE times with another teacher whose mother had kidney failure (I think she might have been the only one to volunteer, but she understood why it was a thing).

Because it is a charter, I would not necessarily point out the time difference. Approach it as a long time without being able to go to the restroom and a concern for your personal health.