New Liquid Policy Provokes Community Backlash

When looking around the classroom, Walls students can typically see a variety of drinks ranging from water, to coffee, to energy drinks and slurpees. All that temporarily changed on Sept. 10 when Walls administration introduced a new rule banning all liquids from being brought into the school building. The decision, which was subsequently revoked, sparked widespread backlash among students, staff, and parents.  

The new rule, which students weren’t made aware of until they arrived at the building on Sept. 10 caught those to whom beverages are near and dear by surprise. It was a major disruption to Kaia Summers’ (‘25) typical routine. “For the past four years I’ve brought Starbucks to school almost every morning,” Summers said. 

Upon arriving at school on Sept. 10 students were immediately instructed to dump out whatever drinks they had with them. Sofia Culberston (‘26) noted that, “it wasn’t just starbucks or outside drinks, we also had to empty our water bottles from home.” 

Students did as they were told, however many told their parents who sent emails to the school. An anonymous student said, “I bring water from home because the water filter is blinking red. I told my parents, who then sent an email, because I don’t feel comfortable drinking the water.” 

Later that evening administration sent out an email saying, “The rationale for the policy is to ensure all security machines are functional daily and to prevent water spillage in backpacks or held in students hands do not spill on the machines that may result in damage. The most important reason is to make sure alcohol or other prohibited liquids are not brought into the school.” 

The new policy prompted mixed reactions from students and staff. Some believed the policy was justified. Avril Graffe (‘27) said, “I understand why they implemented the policy, they have our best interest at heart.”

Others felt it may be too restrictive, particularly with regard to staying hydrated throughout the day. Neve O’Connell (‘26) remarked, “[Confiscating an] energy drink I can understand, but water? I don’t understand why they had me empty my water bottle.” 

School officials have acknowledged the concerns about the water filter, and according to Principle Isaac’s email, “I met with the lead Custodian this morning and asked him to check all water filters. On the second floor water fountain, there is a red blinking light on the water filter. I have communicated with DCPS to share this information and expect to hear about next steps in addressing this concern. In the meantime, students may use water bottle fillers on the first and third floors in the school.” 

Still, parents continued to voice their complaints through emails, and the school administration took these concerns seriously. After a day and a half, the decision to revoke the ban had been made, and students were once again allowed to bring beverages into the building. 

Many students are relieved that it has been reversed, Culberston continued, “I was happy that I could bring my Starbucks to school again.” Many expressed frustration during the brief period that the policy was in place, with some even organizing informal petitions to have the rule revoked, however that was unnecessary since the parent emails and verbal complaints seemed to be enough.