For most new drivers, getting a license and being able to drive to school is   thrilling and gives the driver more freedom. The ability to drive yourself places, including school, is typically extremely exciting. However, this year, Fishers High School students have been stressed when it comes to driving, more specifically parking. 

“Parking last year wasn’t really an issue for me personally,” said senior Coco Lane. “But this year it definitely has gotten way worse. I found it nearly impossible to find a reasonable spot.” 

For students specifically with an internship or off-campus study hall, they have a tough time finding student parking when they arrive at school after 8:30. 

“The parking situation has made it difficult to get to class on time,” said senior Brady Fitzgerald. “When I have to find a spot after coming in from 5th period flex, it is very difficult.” 

Not only is parking challenging at a school with close to 4,000 students and 166 faculty members, but the school has also experienced many construction projects. This has caused not only spots to be blocked off, but student parking has had to be closed off and given to staff. 

Along with that, the marching band has had many spots blocked off since the beginning of the year, for practice after school. 

“The biggest issue with parking is the fact that the band lot is blocked off all day,” said senior Gabby White, “because obviously they aren’t using it all day, and it’s blocking off a lot of spots that could be used.” 

This year marks the first time Fishers High School does not have a designated parking lot for seniors. With student drivers sharing the same lots, it is made parking more difficult for upperclassmen. 

“It also doesn’t help that they got rid of the senior lot,” said White. “I think that’s helped people know where to park and taking that away has made things more difficult.” 

With consequences such as detention being given out for parking illegally and parking in staff, many students feel that the school is not doing enough to help with the problems relating to parking. 

“I don’t think they’re doing enough to fix the parking issues,” said Fitzgerald. “I think the CCA should’ve stayed a senior lot for people like me with flexes and internships.” 

The marching band had their final competition on Saturday, opening up more spots for students. But for now, students will have to find a way to manage the parking struggles that have plagued our school this year.