School traffic has become a daily frustration for both students and parents. At the end of each day, a large number of cars attempt to leave the school at the same time causing severe traffic. “It’s horrible and inexcusable,” says Noah Prendergast. Similar issues occur in the morning, when parents linger while dropping their children. As a result traffic slows significantly, and in some cases, it can take over nine minutes just to leave the school parking lot.

Despite how common this issue is, effective solutions have yet to be implemented. One possible solution is to stagger the arrival and dismissal times. For example, upperclassmen, many of whom drive themselves, could be allowed to leave earlier than under classmen.  This would reduce the number of cars leaving at once and ease congestion. While some may argue that is unfair, it could be justified by the privilege  that comes with being an upperclassmen.

Another potential solution is to better regulate parent pick up and drop off. Parents could be required to wait until student drivers have exited before entering the main traffic flow. Although enforcement may be difficult, clearer rules and staff supervision could make a significant difference. A more aggressive alternative would be to limit parent drop-offs, requiring most underclassmen to take the bus except for early dismissal or late arrival. This could reduce the number of vehicles on campus.

Ultimately the responsibility to fix this issue lies with the school. While administrators may argue that these changes are unfair or difficult to enforce, the current situation is already inefficient and frustrating for students, parents and staff alike. Ignoring the problem only allows it to continue.

If the school is serious about improving student experience and daily operations, it must take action. Even small changes could lead to significant improvements. Without intervention traffic congestion will remain a daily obstacle- one of the students should not have to accept.