Bloomingdale High Grad Gets New Car For Perfect Attendance

VALRICO, FL -- Good health and a commitment to her education paid off Tuesday for Bloomingdale High School graduate Megan Graves.

Graves was among 21 Hillsborough County Schools graduates who had a perfect attendance record from kindergarten through 12th grade.

But only Graves had the winning key that unlocked the door of a new car donated by Toyota of Tampa Bay Tuesday.

The event took place at the school district headquarters at 901 E. Kennedy Bvd., Tampa.

Ten graduating seniors from Hillsborough County Public Schools who had perfect attendance were automatically invited to participate in the event. In addition, 11 graduating seniors with at least one-year perfect attendance while in high school were randomly selected to take part in the event.

“Research shows when students are coming to school and engaged in their course work, they are more likely to reach graduation and become successful in life,” said Superintendent Jeff Eakins.

More than 1,987 high school seniors were eligible by having at least one year of perfect attendance. At the May 14 School Board meeting, 11 students were randomly selected to participate in the event.

The students lined up and took turns trying their keys in the car, hoping to unlock the door.

But none unlocked the car until Graves stepped up. Graves looked momentarily shocked but the shock quickly turned to excitement as her mom, sister and boyfriend rushed up to hug her.

Mark Schols, general manager of Toyota of Tampa Bay, said he was thrilled to host this event for the ninth year.

“Students with perfect attendance demonstrate a high degree of commitment to both the teacher and the class by being there every single day," he said. "Perfect attendance also teaches the importance of seeing something through to the end. Arriving to school each day, on time, is a skill that easily translates to the workforce and lead to a responsible adult life."

Graves said she plans to use the car to commute to Hillsborough Community College this fall.