Sheriff highlights free Teen Driver Challenge program, urges sign-up

Sheriff Sadie Darnell introduced a Teen Driver Challenge presentation to the Board of County Commissioners on Feb. 9, spotlighting a free driver-safety program offered to teenagers that combines classroom instruction and behind-the-wheel exercises.

Darnell said the program, funded by the Florida Sheriffs Association and coordinated locally, is designed to reduce teen crash risk through proven exercises and hands-on training. "This is one of the most popular programs that we have," the sheriff said, noting the program’s focus on vehicle dynamics, skid control, and safe driving techniques.

Lieutenant Kelvin Jenkins (Patrol Support Division) detailed the curriculum: a four-hour classroom session followed by an eight-hour driving day that uses students' vehicles for exercises such as backing, evasive maneuvers and threshold braking; specialized equipment like Easy Drift Rings and a seat belt convincer are used for hands-on training. Jenkins said each class is limited to 18 students and that 159 students completed the program in 2015, with roughly 800 participants since 2009.

Commissioner Cornell praised the program, sharing that his own sons participated and that he attributed reduced crash severity to the training. The sheriff said staff will provide dates and registration information and encouraged sign-ups through the sheriff’s office.

The commission did not take any formal action; the presentation highlighted an existing program and encouraged greater public awareness and participation.