Steering Toward Independence: Taking the Wheel with Driver’s Ed

This spring marked an exciting milestone for Futures: our very first venture into offering a driver’s education class. Partnering with Epic Driving School in West Hartford, we were able to bring a new kind of learning opportunity into the day—one that leads directly to greater independence.

Epic Driving School was incredibly flexible and accommodating, helping us build a program tailored to our students’ needs. The course consisted of fourteen two-hour sessions designed to prepare students for the learner’s permit exam, including the state-required eight-hour safe driving training. We enrolled ten folks—five under the age of 18—and all ten completed the safe driving portion.

For the younger students, the journey doesn’t stop there. Those aged 16 and 17 are required to complete a two-hour virtual class with a parent or guardian to receive full certification, and we’re helping them take that next step. Already, some students have scheduled their permit exams at the DMV—and we’re continuing to support them by studying the driver’s manual in school.

Class attendance was strong—nearly 90%—and the topics were as practical as they were important: safe driving, the dangers of alcohol and drug use, traffic signs, and basic car maintenance. Epic even hosted hands-on lessons where students got to explore a vehicle’s instruments, practice changing a tire, and learn parking techniques.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. Engagement was high, with lively class discussions and shared excitement about the future. For many, learning to drive represents something bigger—a path to freedom, to work, to school, and to adulthood.

“When Carlos and I began planning, we explored several local driving schools and discussed the idea with students,” said one program lead. “With support from our teachers, we reached out to families, and a few of our teaching assistants even accompanied students to class to offer additional support.”

The experience exceeded our expectations. Students gained knowledge, confidence, and motivation. We’ve already started discussions with Epic Driving School about continuing this partnership into the fall, and new students are eager to sign up.

Bre’yan, who turns 17 in September, shared, “It was a great class. I loved taking it during the school day. Getting my permit will help me be more independent.”

Jonielys, a Futures senior who turns 18 in October, is heading to cosmetology school after graduation. “The class taught me things I didn’t know, and I feel more prepared to take my permit test. When I get my license, it will be much easier to get to school and work.”

We’re proud of our students for taking this important step—and proud to support them as they move forward. The road ahead looks bright.