I turned 16 in September and got my driver’s license in October. I was so excited to drive. Driving meant more independence in my daily routine. For example, if I wanted food, I could go get it myself. I didn’t even need to ask permission — I could just walk out the door and leave.
Although I was excited to drive myself around, I was disappointed that I could not drive myself to school every day. Why should I have to wait until I am a junior to start driving to school? What makes sophomores ineligible to park at Wylie E. Groves High School?
While thinking about these questions, I realized there are probably reasons Groves does not simply hand out parking passes. For example, there may be a limited number of parking spaces. Juniors and seniors may already occupy most of the available spots. Administrators also may believe upperclassmen need parking passes more because they are more likely to have jobs or other responsibilities after school.
Additionally, the school may be concerned about traffic flow. If too many students drive to school, traffic hazards and the risk of crashes could increase.
Still, I believe there are valid reasons sophomores should be allowed to park on campus. Sophomores often have many of the same commitments outside school as upperclassmen. Many sophomores participate in sports, clubs and jobs. For example, I teach children at my ice rink, compete in figure skating and participate in several clubs and activities outside school.
Getting rides from others also can be difficult. It is much easier for parents when they do not need to drive their children everywhere. Personally, I know my parents sometimes struggle with getting their children to and from school.
I believe there could be a compromise. Groves could create a lottery system in which sophomores enter for a chance to receive a parking pass. Another idea would be awarding passes based on birthdays, allowing sophomores born earlier in the year to qualify first. Administrators also could combine the two ideas by creating a lottery specifically for sophomores with earlier birthdays.
Although I do not believe these compromises are likely to be implemented, I strongly believe the school should allow at least a small number of sophomores to receive parking passes, especially students with earlier birthdays. Otherwise, how are students supposed to learn the independence they are encouraged to develop in everyday life?
