By Matt Browning
The Ell-Saline SAFE program has done many positive things throughout the school, but its partnership with the Saline County KDOT team might be the most. The two organizations work together during Winter Driver Preparedness Week.
“During the week we had a different theme every day to educate our drivers about the dangers of winter driving,” said Ell-Saline sponsor Tyler Casteel. “These activities included Snow Plow safety. During this event, we partnered with KDOT and Saline County and asked them to come out with a couple of snow plows and their drivers to talk with students. The Drivers of Saline County and KDOT explained the do’s and do not’s of being around a snow plow. The drivers were very engaging and let our students climb on and around the trucks. This gave our students a great perspective of how large a snow plow is. During the week, we also discussed proper tire tread depth and how this can affect stopping distances, traction, and other safety hazards.”
Casteel said that for his program to be successful, it all starts with the students who are dedicated to SAFE.
“My student sponsors Gabby Norris, Kalie Powell, Joclyn Peterson, Madi Helm, Rhett Gillham, and Carley Peirce were a major help in the success of our program this year.,” Casteel said. “My students assist me with SAFE surveys and programs. During the year we hosted many programs to help provide our teen drivers as well as our community resources to help them become more aware of roadway dangers.”
