Program Highlight: Driver's Ed Classes
PAL has started its own in-house driver’s education program. This is a unique, cutting edge program that brings together police officers and youth to reach a concrete, tangible goal of getting a driver’s license.
Many youth in Kansas City, KS who qualify for a learner’s permit or driver’s license fail to get one but drive nonetheless. This is due to a variety of reasons: lack of knowledge about Kansas law, intimidation and fear about engaging with the government bureaucracy, misunderstanding about the proper documents needed, cost. Youth who do not have a license or permit, if they are stopped or involved in an accident, are subject to citations, fines or worse consequences and enter the law enforcement and judicial systems. This is often their first encounter with law enforcement and the legal system and it is a negative one.
PAL is turning what could be a negative experience with law enforcement into a positive relationship with police officers. Officer Joey Reyes has been certified as a driver’s education instructor and PAL has been licensed by the State of Kansas as a driver’s education school. PAL will provide 9 hours of classroom instruction and 6 hours of driving time, as well as assistance in gathering the necessary documents, and walking the youth through the process. All this will be provided at no cost to participants.
For more information about enrolling in the program contact Officer Reyes at jreyes@palkck.com.
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