Disclaimer: J.K. Rowling owns all the things. I just write this stuff.
Part of the Year Long Scavenger Hunt on HPFC. (#31 of the 25 pointers) Write about technology being introduced to Hogwarts in some way
Ineffectual
The children were happily gorging themselves on the multiple courses before them. The feast had been a success, the Sorting Ceremony appeared to have gone well, and Dumbledore was just waiting for the food to settle in the student's stomachs before he made his announcements.
This year was a little more difficult than previous years, as he had some exciting news for the students and faculty. The Minister of Magic had insisted on this addition, because—as he said—all of Muggle London has implemented this technology. It was, apparently, time for a change.
When he was certain that all of the youngsters were filled to the brim and seated lazily at their house tables, Dumbledore rose from his own seat.
"Now that we're all fully satisfied, I would like to take this time to make some very important announcements. First year students are forbidden from entering the Forbidden Forest, as it is a most dangerous place. Mr. Filch would like me to remind you that there are many magical objects that are not permitted in the corridors. A full list is, undoubtedly, posted in his office, should you need to worry yourself on that account." He realized most of the students were now getting to the point of the evening where they would be falling asleep listening, so he made quick work of the next few announcements in order to arrive at the last. "There is new technology here at Hogwarts this year." A couple of students picked their heads up off the tables in order to listen more carefully. "We have modified all the lavatories in the school with new self-flushing toilets!"
Those who weren't sleeping began to laugh.
"Now, now. This is a big improvement, so I am told, and Muggles have had this technology for years. If you are a Muggleborn who is aware of this mechanism, please inform your schoolmates on how it works. The details I will leave in your capable hands. The manual handles have been removed and all you need do is leave the toilet unattended. It will flush itself upon your departure. This is a Muggle device, so if it is finicky, please inform a teacher. Thank you, and off to bed!"
"Headmaster, this is a disaster!"
He had only just turned around in his chair when he realized Minerva was in his study with him. Where had she come from? Either she was getting slyer in her old age or he was becoming deaf in his.
"Minerva, how wonderful to see you."
"These Muggle contraptions the Ministry installed are absolutely ineffectual!" she said. "I've had so many students complaining to me that they have been acting up in the most revolting of ways. I had one student who… well, let's just say, he wasn't covered in mud, Albus."
Her lips pursed and she had her hands on her hips.
"All the Scorgify spells in the world cannot wipe that from my memory. And I'm not the only Head of House who has been having problems, but no one seems to want to speak up!"
"Minerva, please, you are correct. I myself have been having a tough go with them. Please send an owl to the Ministry informing them that a magical equivalent should be installed in its place. In the meantime…"
Dumbledore closed his eyes slowly. When he opened them again, Minerva was looking expectant.
"I will be visiting the lavatories individually in just a moment in order to switch them from self to manual. Will that please you?"
The edges of Minerva's mouth twitched. "Thank you, Headmaster. I'm sure we will all be pleased to hear it."
As soon as Minerva stepped out of the study, Dumbledore's forehead hit the top of his desk.