Imhotep Charter receives $2,500 grant for safe-driving course

In support of its “Pump the Brakes” driver-education program, Imhotep Institute Charter High School was presented with a $2,500 grant from State Farm Insurance Company last week.

Michelle Kellum-Harrison, community outreach coordinator at the East Germantown school, said the program is designed to teach teenagers about safe-driving techniques.

“A lot of teens want to drive, take the test and practice studying for the exam, but some can’t afford it, have the time or means to go out and do it,” said Kellum-Harrison. “So, we figure why not enhance the program at school by offering one other thing that is of interest to them?”

Program details

About 25 students attend the “Pump Your Brakes” course before classes starts daily. Lessons about being cautious and safe behind the wheel strike a chord with a school community that had an alumnus die on the roads near Lincoln University in recent years.

Students study the drivers-permit book, learn how to obtain documentation needed before taking the test, roleplay possible driving scenarios and hear from police officials about how drivers should to conduct themselves when involved in an accident.

The program also covers safe vehicle control and responsible-driving techniques.

“According to a recent study by the Governor’s Highway Safety Administration, deaths among teens ages 16 and 17 have increased nationally in 2012, but dropped in Pennsylvania,” a press release for the April 10 presentation stated.

Added Kellum-Harrison, “We just want to make sure that our students are safe as they transition into a new area of driving.”