According to EPHS policy, “Fast food may not be delivered or brought into school by anyone other than a parent or guardian wishing to drop off lunch for their student.” Now, imagine yourself in this situation: you’ve heard about the DoorDash policy at EPHS and try your best to follow it. You ask your parent to come to school and drop off a Starbucks drink for you. When it finally arrives, you head downstairs during your lunch break to pick it up, only to be told you can’t have it until the end of the day. Many EPHS students have found themselves in this situation or one similar when it comes to ordering DoorDash at school. This raises the question: Is EPHS’ current DoorDash policy truly fair and practical for students? It’s time to reconsider and redefine the policy to make sure it better serves all students.
As I spoke to EPHS students, I found that many were unhappy with the current DoorDash policy. We understand the policy was put in place to prevent disruptions and keep the school secure. After all, having dozens of delivery drivers coming in and out could cause chaos. However, banning food deliveries altogether without trying to find a compromise feels unfair—especially for students with strict dietary restrictions. Not everyone can eat the options available in the cafeteria, and some need specific meals delivered. There should be a way to address these concerns without banning it altogether.
That’s where my solution comes in: the DoorDash Policy Agreement (DPA). At EPHS, many things are considered a privilege that students must earn, so why can’t the ability to order DoorDash be one as well? Here’s my plan for DPA. The DPA could work like any other school privilege: students would apply through a simple form available via email. Each request would be reviewed, ensuring only responsible students are eligible. For example, students might have to meet the following requirements:
- Passing at least 5 classes this semester
- Passing at least 5 classes last semester
- Not owing any detentions to the school
- Not serving any suspensions (in school or out of school) in the last semester
These requirements would help ensure that only students who truly deserve and are responsible enough to handle the DPA privilege receive it. This process would solve many potential issues. The school could also create a process to make sure food is delivered safely. For example, food deliveries could be safely dropped off at the school’s main door. The delivery person could ring the buzzer, leave the food labeled with the student’s name, and avoid confusion or disruption.
Being able to order DoorDash would also be helpful for class parties and student-run clubs, allowing them to order food during or after school, while accommodating members with allergies or dietary restrictions.
While it’s unlikely that EPHS’ DoorDash policy will change altogether, why not give the DPA a chance? It offers a fair solution that could benefit everyone.
