By Kahla Stanley, Gator Galaxy Staff

North Star’s official 2009-2010 student population is 1832. Nearly half of those students are old enough to have a driver’s license.

Not all students have the privilege of driving. Some take the bus, others catch a ride, and occasionally walking is an option for a few. North Star students who do drive have a very special privilege that is often taken for granted. There are simple rules and regulations in the student parking lot that need to be followed.

Students need to remember to be safe and responsible when driving, even if is just in North Star’s parking lot.

One concern is the speed limit. When entering and leaving the parking lot students tend to show off and have a good time, but the parking lot before and/or after school is not the place. For the safety of others, students should not be going anymore than 10-15 mph when in the parking lot.
Students should also be cautious and aware of their surroundings.  If students stay off their cellphones while driving, have fewer people in their cars, wear their seat belts, and keep their music down, they will be able to focus more on the road.
Fatal car crashes happen to people between 16-20, making it even more important for students to keep their focus on the road when driving.
Students who drive recklessly are constantly reminded about their actions, but some just don’t listen. “I think that if the student has been warned once about reckless driving and it happens again, they deserve a bigger consequence or whatever is issued to them,” said senior Tanisha Madlock.
Students, let’s not lose the privilege of driving to school. The expectations are put into play to keep you and fellow students safe. If everyone follows these simple steps, this will eliminate the parking lot issues at North Star.