1 minute read
Why the Restrictions?
by Camila Miguel Francisco
“My legs hurt walking up these steps. Why can’t we use the elevators?” The constant complaint traveled onto many students as I walked from the second to the third floor. The thought of getting onto elevators was a desire wanted by just about everyone. However, students were restricted from using it.
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Elevators have been installed since the early years of Fulton High School, the first elevator is near the cafeteria while the second is near the gym. Adella, a school janitor, says that those who use the elevators are the handicapped, injured, or disabled. But what about the other students? Are elevators neccessary for them? And why are elevators restricted from them in the first place?
The use of elevators
As mentioned, elevators are available for the use by the handicapped and disabled. Occasionally, students come in injured due to a sports injury from practice or an incident outside of school; the number of students vary around 3 to 4 a month. In order to use the elevators, the students have to go to their SLC administrator or counsler with a medical document. For permanent circumstances, the handicapped student is assured to have a permanent key. Unless a student has a key, the school elevator will remain locked. However, injured students criticize the struggle of the elevator restriction.
“The restriction can be a bit ridiculous. It is troublesome to find who has the key to unlock the elevators and use them.” Madison Walker responded. She considers that finding the key is already a burden, especially for students who aren’t capable of searching the whole building to unlock the doors. Hence, they are already late to class.
Restricting elevators creates hardship for these students and many agree. But why keep restricting elevators?
Misuse and the consequences
When asked, assistant principal Timothy Childers states “We also have students blocking the hallways trying to use the elevators...” and “...students have been in the elevators doing things they shouldn’t do at school.” It is important to consider what made the restriction happen, it isn’t easy to handle these issues.
Safety is a priority when dealing with elevators. “The more elevators are used, the less life they have left over the coming years.” The possibility of consequences occurring is highly possible: getting stuck in the elevator, free falls, defective doors, or electrocution. In addition, replacing damaged elevators can cost up to $1million dollars more or less. Limiting the use is beneficial to a student’s safety and the school financially.
Student views
In response to the restrictions, Jose Lucas says, “I believe the restrictions are over the top. Students feel as if they aren’t as responsible for their age...Yes some students might abuse them but that doesn’t mean everyone should face the consequences.” He tends to disagree with the current policy.
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