This year at Chapin High School, administration is only allowing upper classmen a parking pass.

By state law, teenagers are allowed to take a written test to be provided with a permit.  A permit allows the teen to drive with an adult that is at least twenty one years old.  After obtaining necessary driving hours with a permit for six months, South Carolina allows the driver to take a road-driving test to receive a restricted license.  Teens are then allowed to drive alone during daylight hours.  By that time, they are usually sophomores in high school.

Principal Ross says, “Due to renovations, Chapin High School does not have enough space for sophomores to park on campus.”

Sophomores feel they are being treated unfairly because the sophomore class last year was allowed to purchase a parking spot.

“I believe it’s not fair because sophomores, even freshman, got to park last year,” says sophomore, Justin Collett.

In light of these circumstances, Mr. Ross is aware of the underclassmen concerns.

“If renovations are not started by November as planned, then I will see what I can do about letting sophomores park in empty spaces in Palmetto Woods,” said Ross.

Many sophomores are upset because they do not understand or know the reasoning behind this decision.  The main issues these underclassmen have is transportation to and from school.  Most play sports or participate in after-school activities.  For those whose parents work, they have a hard time finding rides home.  Though the school administration understands these concerns, sophomores and underclassmen will not be allowed to purchase parking passes until renovations are completed.