
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: WEDNESDAY, February 15, 1995                   TAG: 9502150081
SECTION: VIRGINIA                    PAGE: C-1   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: JOEL TURNER STAFF WRITER
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

COUNSELOR MAKES CASE FOR DRIVER ED

Economically disadvantaged students at Patrick Henry High School would be hurt by the proposal to eliminate driver education during the regular school year, according to Dick Kepley, a guidance counselor and former coach.

Kepley urged the Roanoke School Board on Tuesday night to restore the driver education program so students may continue to take the course at a nominal charge.

"A lot of disadvantaged kids look forward to taking driver ed," Kepley said. About 120 Patrick Henry students take the course each semester.

"Their families can't afford to pay $150 to $200 for driver ed,'' Kepley said.

Under the proposal, all driver ed courses would be shifted to summer school. Instead of the current $25 fee, students would have to pay $150 or else take private training.

Superintendent Wayne Harris said the school system could save $82,500 by eliminating two teaching positions.

But Kepley said the school system should be more concerned about its youth who live in public housing communities.

He said many youths look forward to their driver ed courses, and it gives them a sense of hope.

Kathy Glassbrenner, a Parent-Teacher Association leader, also asked that the driver education program be restored.

"We believe that it is an incentive, that it causes some to stay in school," she said.

At a hearing on the proposed $77.6million budget, speakers urged support for:

Seven-period high school days so students would have a greater choice of courses.

More money for the chess program, which has about 2,000 participants.

Funds for modular classrooms at Crystal Spring Elementary School to ease overcrowding.

Funds to train teachers in current computer technology.

Funds for training on computers so teachers can use the technology that is available.

The elimination of driver education during the regular school year is included in a $450,000 list of budget reductions to help ease the school system's financial crunch.

Salem and Roanoke County offer driver education during the regular and summer semesters.

Roanoke County's fee is $75 during the regular school year and $125 during summer school. Salem charges $75 year-round. The fees for private courses range from $155 to $185.

by CNB