Leveling the Field with a Lottery

Update: Students vote that senior-based lottery is the best method for assigning parking spots.

Principal Mr. Scott has confirmed the possibility of a student lottery for parking spaces in the second semester. This would mean seniors with a parking spot now might not have that spot in January.

THS is scheduled to move into the new building after midterms. The current parking lot will then be eliminated, and a new parking lot will be used for the spring semester.

Principal Scott estimated the student body would lose twenty parking spots during the move to the new building. When asked about the effects of this change, Mr. Scott responded, “We will likely do a lottery for the second semester.”

In a lottery, the senior class maintains parking priority, and each qualifying student is allowed to submit their name for a chance at a parking spot. Winning students are determined by a randomizer, allocating each student an equal opportunity at parking. 

In the first semester, parking was determined on a first-come-first-serve basis. Reporters questioned if those who promptly applied for parking in the first semester would maintain their spot in the second semester. The verdict was a no.

Mr. Scott commented, “We’d like to make things fair and give the people who didn’t have a car or license in the first semester a chance at parking.”

The lottery is considered a fair system for students with late birthdays or financial struggles. It provides equal opportunity for those who were physically unable to pursue a license or vehicle during the first semester.

Who do you think should get a shot at parking? Some argue that priority should go to students with jobs or after school-activities should be given priority; others suggest that priority should go to students in good academic standing, like senior privilege. Register your vote here or add suggestions in the comments.