No Plac, No Parking

Author: Isabella Podborny

People illegally parking in handicapped spots has been an issue since the spots were made. At Hayward Twin Oaks about 2-7 cars per day actually have handicapped placards. Friends and siblings from previous graduating classes have said this is a problem since they have been here. It's an issue that's been discussed but never improved.

The misuse of the school's accessible parking spots that are SPECIFICALLY reserved for those in need continues to be a widespread issue at Hayward Twin Oaks High School. My sightings of this illegal act show how only a slight fraction of cars actually belong to people who have the permits to park there. This is a pattern of disrespect for the law, rules and the people on our campus. It creates a bad appearance for our school and staff, and impedes the ability of people with limited mobility to enter our school. 

Many students who started notice how often these people are without placards, sometimes just because they want to be closer to the entrance to save time. It's a selfish habit, and it shows a lack of understanding about why those spaces exist in the first place. These spots are not a convenience to your time, they are a necessity for individuals who physically can't walk long distances or require more space to exit a vehicle safely, and people like staff, students and parents are taking away someone else's right to accessibility to our school.

If this issue continues to be ignored, not only will it cause a large inconvenience for handicapped students and parents trying to get onto campus, but it will also show that our school doesn't prioritize accessibility or respect for rules. However, if we start taking action on this issue, we are going to become a model for our schools and show respect and inclusion for everyone on campus. Our school can be a welcoming safe space for students of all kinds if we work together and make sure these spots are cleared for those in need.