Drivers Ed Coming to a High School Near You

In the past, Rivertowns soon-to-be drivers were forced to rely on their parents to drive them to other schools to complete drivers education programs.  But beginning this fall, the Rivertowns Continuing Education program will make it possible for students to take the classes right here.

"That's what's so important about this program," Sylvia Fassler-Wallach, Dobbs Ferry School's director of finances and facilities, said.  "It's the first time drivers ed. has been offered in our schools."  

Dobbs Ferry's board of education approved the program to be offered in their district last week, and Hastings and Ardsley have already pledged to participate.  

"The only district we're not entirely sure about is Irvington," Fassler-Wallach said. "But they have it on their agenda for next Tuesday's board meeting."

Julie Fraitag-Weinstein, director of the inter-village education program, in conjunction with the districts' financial directors, awarded a contract to well-respected PAS Auto School, which will administer both classroom and behind-the-wheel training.

Students will be expected to take a total of 16 one-and-a-half-hour lessons in the classroom and spend 24 hours in the car, one-quarter of which they will actually be driving.

"And what's great about this program is that classes will be offered on different days at different schools," Fassler-Wallach said. "That means, if they have to miss a class one day at their own school, they can make it up later in the week at any other school offering the program."  

Although the schedule has not  yet been finalized, Fraitag-Weinstein said fall classes would start in early October.  There is a parent/student orientation on September 24 at 6 p.m. at Ardsley High School.  

Drivers Ed.will cost $485 for Rivertowns residents and $499 for non-residents.  

To sign-up call: (914) 693-6300 ext. 2224.