COLCORD, Okla. -- Colcord Public Schools will continue to offer driver's education thanks to the donation from the Cherokee Nation.
The small, rural school district in southern Delaware County has offered driver's educations to their students for more than 30 years. Colcord had been leasing a vehicle every year from Stilwell Ford for the purpose of driver's training, but because of budget shortfalls, the district could not afford to continue this practice or purchase a vehicle suitable for driver's training, according to superintendent Bud Simmons.
Cherokee Nation Council Member Curtis Snell and Chief Bill John Baker helped by donating a 2009 Honda Accord to use for the driver's education program.
Drivers education is vital to students because it allows students to receive professional training on the proper way to drive, building their confidence and skills, according to Simmons. The training also helps them recognize risky situations and act appropriately. Other benefits include discounts on insurance premiums and elective credits on high school transcripts. Students can also receive an unrestricted driver license one year sooner than without drivers education.
The Cherokee Nation has been very helpful to communities and school districts across Northeastern Oklahoma, Simmons said.
"We are so thankful and blessed for this donation from the Cherokee Nation" he said.
General News on 01/28/2015