The second annual Driving Attendance campaign is in the books.

Northwest Classen High School student Emilio Ramirez, an incoming senior, is the proud owner of a brand new Chevy Spark, courtesy of Hudiburg Chevrolet and The Foundation for Oklahoma City Public Schools.

Oklahoma City Public Schools students achieving perfect, on-time attendance had one chance per nine weeks, with an additional chance for accomplishing the feat each nine weeks. (COVID-19 and early school closures forced the contest to end after the third quarter.)

Finalists were randomly selected by our partners at Hogan Taylor from all eligible students. The goal was to have representation of at least one student from each of the largest high schools. The 10 finalists came from Capitol Hill High School, Classen School of Advanced Studies at Northeast, Douglass, John Marshall, Northwest Classen, Star Spencer, Southeast (2) and U.S. Grant (2).

Emilio shared some thoughts about what winning the car means to him.

“The new car is great and I love it,” he said. “I was happy to be a participant, but as soon I heard my name called I was more than happy, I was excited. My mom encouraged me to go to school on time every day. Having the car keeps me thinking that I can do anything if I work hard at it.”

Belinda Ramirez, Emilio’s mom, recalled the thrill of his win.

“At first I didn’t think it was real … and then when you called his name I was so excited and proud of him. I see that it would help him by building his self-esteem having the feeling that he’s helping us would make him feel responsible. For his family there is relief knowing that he does not have to walk home in the rain, heat or snow. The car was his motivation to be in school. He loves to drive it and wants to show it off to his friends when he returns to school.”

Jahree Herzer, Northwest Classen principal, said, “Emilio is a wonderful, hardworking young man — so deserving of the new car!”

Hard work does pay off, Emilio. Keep it up and we’ll see you on the road.

Read Mary Mélon’s original Oklahoman editorial.