In a recent decision by San Luis Obispo High School administration, all freshmen and Sophomores will be restricted from leaving school grounds during lunch next year, a move that has sparked frustration among freshmen students. Photo courtesy of freshman Sophia Chaves.
Traditionally, sophomore year, when many students receive their driver’s license, marks the freedom of venturing off campus for lunch. This opportunity for underclassmen has been revoked for the 2026 school year, fueling controversy at San Luis Obispo High School.
“Once you get the freedom to drive, you should have the freedom to leave campus at lunch, because that’s what all the years before us have been able to do,” said freshman Parker Moerman.
SLO County public high schools have varying rules on whether students are allowed to leave campus during break. Morro Bay High School only restricts freshmen from going off at lunch. Conversely, Arroyo Grande High School reported that only upperclassmen are granted this privilege.
“I think that [administration] did consider students’ perspectives [on this decision], I just don’t think they considered them as valid,” said senior Bohdi Leroy Wistead.
Underclassmen echo Winstead’s statement, feeling their opinions unrepresented in this decision. The underlying disconnect between student perspectives and the administration’s actions, raises suspicions on the importance of student voices.
Despite the uproar, some students see benefits to this decision.
“I feel like [this policy] is great, people, especially {next year’s] sophomores, are super irresponsible and not good with their choices—they are just a bunch of idiots and don’t know how to act,” said sophomore Clint Wheeler.
Many think that students’ irresponsibility impacts their decision making, which can cause unsafe scenarios when venturing off-campus. This unpopular perspective is a huge contrast from how most underclassmen feel.
“I think [these regulations] will help with [student safety], it will help reduce some of the incidents that are occuring in the community, and at the different stores and businesses,” said principal Rollin Dickinson.
Dickinson believes these guidelines will enhance student safety by reducing incidents in the surrounding area.
“It helps create more of a campus community, which I think, can kind of, lead to student safety and wellness,” said Dickinson.
Dickinson further states that this will contribute to students overall well-being. These plans are seen as a way to promote not only safety, but also the mental and social health of students.
As the school year continues, so will the debate on these new regulations. With many students feeling unheard, the question remains: will their voices be loud enough to influence future policies, or will they be left behind at the gate?
