Getting the chance to go to a professional driving school and get behind the wheel with professional race car drivers and driving instructors accustomed to driving high performance vehicles such as Ferraris and Lamborghinis may seem like an experience one can only dream of, however a few weeks ago this experience became a reality and students got to miss school doing it.

On Friday, March 22 students got the chance to attend the Ford Driving Skills for Life (DSFL) program at Manheim Auto Auction in San Antonio.  DSFL was established in 2003 by Ford Motor Company Fund, the Governors Highway Association, and a panel of safety experts to teach newly licensed teens the necessary skills for safe driving beyond what they learn in standard driver education programs.

“I’m really glad I got the opportunity to go,” senior Victoria Guzman said.  “I learned a lot of skills to keep me safe on the road.”

Students began their day arriving at school by 6:15 a.m. and promptly loading the bus and driving to the event location in San Antonio.  Once there, students were escorted inside  they were given a 20 question multiple choice test which quizzed on how much they knew about driving safety.  After the test was completed, students were brought to a large garage-like area where instructors introduced themselves and gave a brief outline of the days events.  After the introductions, students were broken into groups and spread out.  The hands-on experience taught students how to recognize and avoid hazards, judge speed and space, and how to handle a car that seems out of control. In addition, students were tested on their ability to multi task and asked to text and drive so they can see first-hand how distracting texting and driving is.  One exercise also simulated drunk driving and students were able to see just how impaired one becomes when they get behind the wheel when they are drunk.

“It was lots of fun and I learned a lot”, senior Corinna Casas said.  “It can be dangerous texting and driving or drinking and driving.”

Students were coached from the right seat by some of the best instructors in the business and from around the world, and it made for a successful and imperative learning experience.