Should students be required to pay to park on campus? There have been many opinions on this matter from students. However, the funds from parking passes help maintain the parking lot, student and staff safety and availability of parking spaces. Although students’ money is going to the school, many complain $65 for a parking pass still costs too much. However, the ‘hefty’ price is necessary to protect our students and staff. 

“The parking passes are too expensive,” senior Alex Villegas said. “I think more students would actually buy a pass if they lowered the price.”

For students and families already struggling financially, the fee may cause an unnecessary financial burden. 

“I understand why it costs so much,” senior Kerry Gladney said. “I also understand why we need it. It protects us while letting the school know who’s on campus.”

When a student and/or parent purchases a parking pass, they have to provide information such as vehicle registration, insurance, and driver’s license. This allows the school to easily track who belongs on campus and who doesn’t. With this system in place, it is easier for the school to identify potential threats and suspicious activity.  

“I’m actually glad they check,” Gladney said. “Because there are a lot of people who can’t drive that sneak into the parking lot. Having a parking pass lowers that number and keeps the lot safe.”

One reason students are required to have a pass to park in the lot is so they identify who can legally drive. By allowing those to drive without a license or only a permit, it opens the door to danger for pedestrians and other drivers in the parking lot. 

“I understand why having these rules are needed,” Villegas said. “But there’s only  two months left. They shouldn’t care.”

Though many may have an issue with the price or the policy in general, this policy keeps students and staff safe. It reduces people jumping the fences and possibly harming themselves. I too agree that though the price may be a bit high, the safety of students is worth it.