As high school students approach their 17th birthdays, there is one thing always on everyone’s mind: getting a driver’s license. The thought of driving to pick up friends, going to the mall, and cranking up your favorite tunes brings a sense of freedom to many adolescents. One of the biggest changes for many CHS students when they turn 17 is the new ability to drive themselves to school. For many, this marks the end of being chauffeured by parents and older siblings, carpooling, walking, biking, or even skateboarding. However, one thing that remains the same is the limited parking around CHS. 

It’s no secret that parking at CHS is often chaotic. Cars line up on yellow lines, some get boxed in, and others park on the wrong side of the street! I’ve experienced this once myself – I was unable to drive myself home for open campus study and lunch because I was so tightly boxed in that my car wouldn’t budge an inch. I’m sure many CHS students can relate to my story. I understand no driver is perfect (myself included), but I urge all CHS students to take a moment to read and follow this simple PSA when parking at school.  

• Give a little space between cars: we’re not packing sardines in here, let’s avoid squeezing the cars so close together. No one likes to be boxed and no one wants to risk a dent or mark to their car. 

• Don’t park on the yellow lines or in front of driveways. This may seem obvious, but it has to be addressed. Parking in these areas can inconvenience and upset neighbors or land yourself a ticket. 

• Know which side of the street to park on. Many streets around CHS require parking on different sides based on if the date is odd or even. Pay attention to signs to avoid another possible ticket situation. 

I know many of us share feelings of frustration for the parking situation here at school. But together we can all pitch in to make the experience less chaotic for everyone. Thank you CHS!