The school brought back its senior attendance car incentive to keep students on track. School leaders say attendance rose from 89% last year to 96% because of the giveaway.
Aaron Lewis, the school's 12th grade assistant principal, says he sees seniors taking more responsibility. They follow up on absences, bring doctor's notes and make sure they call in. "They're taking a lot more initiative in their education," Lewis said.
Grades matter too. Senior Diazany Rivera said grades are another requirement, and that pushes her to aim higher. "It does make me want to strive to get higher grades," she said.
Senior Bennett Bell said the incentive lightens the mood. "We're going to school for a reason, and we get rewarded for going to school," Bell said.
Issac Walker, a dealer with Stevens Five Star Car and Truck Center, said the giveaway is meant to help a student beyond graduation. "Maybe I can help somebody else get started in life and have a jumpstart," Walker said.