Alive at 25 Course Required for High School Drivers

Students who want to drive to school next year will have to pass a course required by the district to be eligible.

For the 2012-2013 school year, the School District of Pickens County has said that each student who drives or parks on a high school campus must complete Alive at 25, a defensive driving program developed by the National Safety Council.

Alive at 25 addresses the behaviors of driving and the consequences that can come from poor decision-making behind the wheel, according to a release from the district.

The course is four and a half hours long and will be taught by local law enforcement officers.

Focal points of the course include: the dangers of speeding, failure to use seatbelts, using cell phones while driving, eating while driving, driving under the influence of alcohol, and more.

The goal is to prevent traffic violations, collisions and fatalities.

“We encourage all students who want to drive on our high school campuses next year to prepare now,” said Dr. Henry Hunt, superintendent. “Students will not receive parking permits until they successfully complete the Alive at 25 course.”

Beginning in April and continuing through May, classes will be offered on multiple days in all Pickens County high schools. Students may attend at any SDPC school or at any other site in South Carolina where the course is taught.

The one-time fee for Alive at 25 is $35 and must be paid before the first class. Any student who cannot afford the $35 registration fee may contact the South Carolina National Safety Council at the number above and ask about financial assistance.