In a recent report by FOX 11, the increasing presence of QR codes in everyday life has raised concerns among students at Edison High School in Huntington Beach. As the school implements a new tracking policy requiring students to scan QR codes before entering restrooms, privacy issues have come to the forefront.
One student shared their experience, stating, “When you need to use the bathroom, you have to take out your phone to scan the QR code, and then they ask you to put your phone away before you can go in.” They added, “You can’t even check to see if you’re running out of time.” This QR code scanning policy is part of a series of changes being introduced for the 2024-2025 school year.
The response from students has been one of anger and frustration, with many feeling that the school’s actions violate their privacy rights. A petition on change.org has garnered support, with students arguing that the policy contradicts the government’s responsibility to protect student health and safety, and some even deeming it unconstitutional. “I think it’s completely disgraceful,” remarked one student, while another expressed that “this is just insane.”
On the flip side, the school claims that the policy will help monitor student whereabouts. Megan, a student at the school, pointed out, “Often, students leave for the restroom during class and then hang out with friends instead of going back.” As of October 14th, attempts by FOX 11 to reach Edison High School and district officials for comment have gone unanswered.