This spring, Pacific Collegiate School (PCS) implemented new speed bumps in its parking lot, a safety measure recommended by Vice Principal Mr. Ramirez and Facilities Manager Mr. Dan. While the initiative aims to enhance student safety, it has sparked discussions among the student body regarding its necessity and financial implications.
PCS operates with an annual budget of approximately $7.66 million, as reported in its 2023 tax filings. Additionally, the school pays around $422,000 annually to the Pacific Collegiate Foundation for facility rent, accounting for about 5.3% of its expenses.The funds used for the speed bumps and parking lot repainting come from a specific allocation designated for campus improvements. These funds are separate from those used for academic programs and are often sourced from government provisions earmarked for infrastructure projects. This distinction ensures that enhancements like the speed bumps do not detract from educational resources.
Some students and parents have expressed concerns that the new speed bumps exacerbate traffic congestion during peak hours. The added delays have reportedly led to increased tardiness and complications during student drop-off and pick-up times. Despite the absence of prior incidents, Mr. Ramirez and Mr. Hogan advocated for the speed bumps as a proactive measure to ensure student safety. Their decision aligns with PCS’s broader commitment to providing a secure learning environment.
While the installation of speed bumps at Pacific Collegiate School has drawn mixed reactions, it highlights the ongoing balance schools must strike between infrastructure improvements and community concerns. Though some students and parents question the project’s timing and necessity, the administration maintains that investing in safety is never trivial. As PCS continues to grow and evolve, open communication between staff, students, and families will be essential to ensure that future decisions reflect both the values and the needs of the entire school community.
