In an effort to promote safety and awareness behind the wheel, the Pierz Peer Helpers recently organized a series of powerful presentations focused on the life-altering consequences of distracted driving.
The sessions were specifically tailored for 9th and 10th-grade students in Mr. Matthew Olsen’s and Ms. Kelly Sauer’s English classes, reaching students just as many are beginning their journeys as new drivers.
Led by advisor Ms. Marilyn Maleska, the Peer Helper team—Olivia Athman, Wyatt Betsinger, Braydin Olesch, Nathan Posch, Cadie Samuelson, Emily Wagner, and Kylie Wentz—coordinated the event to ensure their classmates understood that driving is a responsibility that requires 100% of their attention.
The presentations featured a diverse panel of speakers who provided different perspectives on the dangers of losing focus:
Mr. Richard Teske, Driver Education Instructor.
Ms. Tory Hayes, a staff member who shared the heartbreaking perspective of a victim’s family.
Chief Eric Hanneken, Pierz Police Chief.
Tracy Voigt, District Transportation Coordinator.
Voices from the Peer Helpers
The student organizers felt a strong sense of urgency in bringing this message to their peers, highlighting that "distraction" goes far beyond just texting.
"I feel like this was important to set up due to the fact that so many new drivers don't realize that it only takes one second of you being distracted to get in a crash that could change the rest of your life," said Wyatt Betsinger.
Kylie Wentz emphasized that distractions come in many forms:
"I want people to understand that distracted driving isn’t only about your phone; it includes eating, music, and talking to passengers. Our presenter, Ms. Hayes, mentioned that 'if the wheels are turning, your phone is down,' and that really stuck with me. No text or call is worth risking a life."
Cadie Samuelson echoed the sentiment, reminding her classmates of the fragility of time:
"I think the key message my peers should take away is that the seconds truly do matter; they could take your life or someone else's."
Take Action: Family Safe Driving Agreement
A major goal of the presentation was to encourage students and parents to have honest conversations about road safety. One of the best ways to set clear expectations is through a formal agreement.
We encourage all families to download and review the Family Safe Driving Agreement linked below. By setting these ground rules today, we can ensure our students stay safe for years to come. This form can also be found on the Parent Resources page of our website.
[Click Here to Download the Family Safe Driving Agreement (PDF)]