THE PARKING lot policy at Granger High School has been in place for some time now. It has stated that during school, students and staff need to have a parking pass on their cars showing. The cons and pros of this seem to be the talk for many students and staff.

Staff member Mr. Negley brought up how the parking lot needs organization and to be policed, “I would like to keep this rule more organized and monitor what goes on in the parking lot,” Mr. Negley said. He believes the parking lot environment safety and accountability should be kept for everyone’s needs. 

One change that has occurred during this school year is how lax the actual parking pass is. Unlike last year, when the passes were permanently affixed to one vehicle, the student passes can now be transferred between cars. The adjustment has gone over well, as most students say it works with their convenience. 

According to Mr. Negley, this may be a change that other schools need to spur on. This could change how parking spaces are managed altogether in schools. Though not every reaction is positive. 

Tyler Steenblick (12) broached an issue that has happened time and time again: “I usually do not have any personal problems, but I’ve heard other people do,” Steenblick said. He cited how in the past, snow was being blown onto parking spots, and cars without permits had parked in spots that they weren’t allowed to. This type of incident has frustrated students, showing just how important it is that the policies are followed. 

Some students wished they could have more freedom in choosing their spots when asked about how the parking policy might change. When a student pays for a pass, the selection of spots is chosen based on the first-come, first-served rule. The system has very little choice and can be really inconvenient for students who want more of a strategic location. Many students share the idea that allowing individuals to choose their spots would make it fairer.

Not everybody is pleased with needing to have a parking pass. Dylan Perez (9) said, “I don’t like how we are made to pay for a school parking lot; it’s dumb and useless,” Perez said. Whereas some students are satisfied with the recently developed changes, others find it a nuisance with associated costs and constraints.

As the school continues to evaluate viability and effectiveness further with this policy, the school must learn to take into consideration many opinions emanating from its community. By opening up the possibilities of discussion, modification may prove to generate a more successfully functioning parking environment for all at Granger High.