Southern Hills Auto Plaza ‘drives education forward’ with car donation to WPHS

Southern Hills Auto Plaza has taken a significant step toward safer roads and better educated drivers by generously donating a car to the West Plains High School, announce officials with the R-7 School District. The donation, officials explain, will kickstart a driver's education program, which will equip students with vital skills for responsible driving. "We are thrilled to receive this generous donation from Southern Hills Auto Plaza. It will enable us to provide our students with a hands-on driver's education experience emphasizing safety and responsible driving practices," said district Human Resources and Student Services Director Matthew Orchard. “The vehicle donation will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the West Plains community, contributing to safer and more responsible driving." West Plains High School is finalizing plans to integrate the donated vehicle into the driver's education curriculum, with the first classes expected to roll out this summer, officials added. Foreground, from left: Southern Hills Auto Plaza General Manager Ralph Whitsell and Sales Manager Jake Woodworth, WPHS freshman Kylie Shipley, Principal Ryan Smith, Student Services Director Matthew Orchard and future driver’s education instructor Janet Brewer.