LANCASTER, OH — Obtaining a driver’s license is a major milestone for any teenager, but for many, the cost and lack of access to training can be significant roadblocks. This week, Lancaster City Schools received a major boost to help steer students toward success.
Brad Hutchinson, owner of Company Wrench, and Buckeye Toyota have partnered to donate a brand-new 2026 Toyota Corolla to the district’s driver’s education program. In addition to the vehicle, the donors provided $5,000 in scholarship funds to be managed through the Fairfield County Foundation, specifically to help eligible students cover the costs of the course.
A Collaborative Effort
The donation was the brainchild of Hutchinson, who wanted to expand the capacity of the district’s training program. To make it happen, he collaborated with Brett Conrad at Buckeye Toyota. Both parties contributed $15,000 each to fund the purchase and donation of the vehicle.
“The car donation was Brad’s idea to help increase the number of students who could participate in our driver’s education program,” said Superintendent Nathan Hale. “We are extremely grateful to Mr. Hutchinson and Buckeye Toyota for making the program even more accessible for our students.”
A Rare Resource in Ohio
Lancaster High School is part of an elite group in the state. According to Superintendent Hale, only 75 of Ohio’s 823 public high schools offer driver training courses.
The program, run through the Fairfield County Educational Service Center (ESC), provides a comprehensive curriculum approved by the Ohio Department of Public Safety. It includes:
- Classroom Instruction: 24 hours of training (available online or in-person).
- Behind-the-Wheel: 8 hours of hands-on driving with an instructor.
- Affordability: The program is priced at $350, with the new scholarship funds now available to help families in need.
The program is open to students aged 15.5 to 17, offering flexible scheduling during evenings, weekends, and throughout the summer to accommodate busy student athletes and workers.
Looking Ahead
With a second vehicle now in the fleet, the district expects to significantly reduce wait times for the “behind-the-wheel” portion of the training, allowing more Gales to get their licenses safely and affordably.
