Forget the SATs, choosing between AMSTUD and APUSH, college apps, or debating how much of that study guide is really “common sense”—one of the biggest decisions for a Warde high schooler is choosing the right parking lot. The options can seem overwhelming, but as a senior who knows Fairfield’s parking scene, I was ready to tackle it. While we’ve already picked and paid for our esteemed parking spots, consider this a guide for future Warde drivers—or maybe just a way to help you feel better (or worse) about your current spot. Here are my reviews of each lot at Warde…
Music Lot
The Music Lot is my personal favorite, offering a lot of perks for Warde students. Positioned directly across from the bus loop and the music wing, it’s ideal for an instrumentalist like me. The convenience of grabbing my violin and walking right to my car is unmatched. Another benefit: you can make both left and right turns out of this lot, and it has two entry points—a flexibility not all lots offer. The only drawback? Parents sometimes use this lot for drop-offs in the morning, creating a bit of traffic. (Come on, we can all see those cones!) Still, leaving the lot at 2:10 is a breeze, with traffic jams being a rare issue.
Front Lot
Although it’s further from the gym and athletic fields, the Front Lot could be perfect for non-athlete students. Often considered a teachers-only zone, this lot actually has several spaces reserved for students, which can make for some amusing encounters. Think hitting your ex’s car is bad? Imagine backing into your math teacher’s! Yet there are upsides. Many students report that the traffic here is nearly nonexistent before and after school since teachers come and go at different times.
Solar Panels
If you’re an adrenaline-seeker who’s okay with a little chaos, the Solar Panels lot is for you. Popular with athletes and seniors looking for an Instagram-worthy parking spot, this lot tends to get busy. Parents often use it as a drop-off and pick-up area, leading to bottlenecks at peak hours. On the plus side, the Solar Panels lot has its own dedicated exit, separate from the rest of the school’s lots. However, be aware: that exit only allows right turns, which might be frustrating for those trying to head left.
A-Wing
Last and least, the A-Wing lot—though a somewhat overlooked choice—comes in last for me. Tucked at the very back of Warde, it has fewer pros, but it’s a great spot if you’re trying to hit a step goal. After school, getting to this lot can feel like a bit of a hike, but the upside is its private entrance on Townsend, which avoids the foot traffic common with other entrances.
Each parking lot available to Warde students has their own benefits and downsides, and it’s up to the individual to make this monumental decision.