Thanks to a grant for more than 21 thousand dollars from the Georgia Driver’s Education Commission, Columbus Technical College will soon be partnering with area high schools to provide driver’s education for students who qualify.

The grant, which runs from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016, will help finance driver’s education by providing classes with 30 hours of classroom instruction and six hours of behind the wheel experience with a certified instructor from Columbus Technical College.

Columbus Technical College President Lorette M. Hoover says having this opportunity to serve our community is priceless.

“Columbus Technical College is honored to be a part of this important venture,” Hoover said, “The College serves citizens in six counties in Georgia and being able to provide quality services such as certified driver’s education for young people and their families is invaluable in building and maintaining strong relationships.”

Vice President of Economic Development Jamie Loyd added, “Young drivers in Georgia are required to have this training if they want their Class D driver’s license by the time they turn 17; we are honored to be able to provide this service. The long term benefits of this program will pay dividends for years to come.”

The benefits of safe, defensive driving have a very serious side according to GDEC Chairman Harris Blackwood.

“Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers and we are committed to providing students with the education and experience needed to avoid tragedy,” Blackwood said. “This grant will help Columbus Technical College equip young drivers in the community with the tools and knowledge to be safer when they get behind the wheel.”

As part of the grant, Columbus Technical College received two brand new Kia Optimas and was required to make safety modifications. For more information about the driver’s education program, contact the Columbus Technical College Economic Development Division at 706-649-1403.