By pledging to drive safely with Celebrate My Drive, students have the opportunity to win grant money for WHS and a private Kelly Clarkson concert.
Physical Education Teacher Ms. Beverly Torok is the coordinator of Celebrate My Drive at WHS this year. Torok said, “I am hoping that it sparks interest and knowledge in people when they go to [pledge].”
The “Commitment Period” is between Oct. 18 and Oct. 26, and students will have iPads available for use in the cafeteria during that week in order to make their verbal commitment to safe driving if they choose to do so said Torok.
Torok said, “Car crashes are the number one cause of death among teens in the United States.” Ultimately State Farm – the agency that has run Celebrate My Drive since 2012 – has stated that the first year on the road for teenagers is the most dangerous one.
The purpose of celebratemydrive.com is to make teenagers more conscientious when they are driving and willing to stand by the pledge they took. State Farm offers rewards other than the possibility of saving lives through safe driving however, such as grant money and a concert by Kelly Clarkson.
According to Torok, the total amount of grant money being offered is $3.25 million. WHS has the potential to win up to $100,000 if enough students make the commitment. Additionally, the two schools with the most students who sign up will win a private concert from Grammy-winner Kelly Clarkson.
Said Torok, “10 percent of the winnings go to Driver’s Ed program, which could provide simulators that would really enhance the course.” Pledging for Celebrate My Drive could not only result in prizes at WHS, but a student body that is more more aware of driving safely.