ODESSA, Texas — Odessa College will host its Teen Driver’s Education Safety Demo Day on Monday, Nov. 9, from 7:00PM to 9:00PM at the Dr. Gregory Williams Hall parking lot, located at 220 W. University Blvd. The event will provide students with hands-on demonstrations and real-world lessons focused on safe and responsible driving.
The event brings together the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) HERO Roadside Assistance, the Odessa College Police Department, and the Odessa Police Department to help students better understand the responsibilities and risks associated with driving.
Students will participate in impaired driving simulations, explore emergency response vehicles, learn safe driving practices, and practice proper procedures during a simulated traffic stop. The demonstrations are designed to help young drivers build confidence, develop safe habits, and make responsible decisions behind the wheel.
Odessa College’s Teen Driver’s Education program has served Ector County and surrounding communities for 66 years. In recent years, the program has expanded its approach to include more interactive, hands-on learning opportunities.
“While our program has a long-standing history, over the past year, we have completely revamped the experience to offer a more engaging, hands-on approach to driver education that goes far beyond what has traditionally been offered,” said Haylea Brizendine, Community Enrichment Training Program Coordinator for Odessa College Continuing Education.
Brizendine said the program emphasizes preparing students for the real-world responsibilities of driving, not simply helping them pass a test.
“By reaching students at the very beginning of their driving journey, we hope to establish safe habits, build confidence, and prevent dangerous behaviors before they develop,” Brizendine said.
In addition to Safety Demo Day, students conclude each course with a two-hour session at the Odessa College Sewell Auto Tech facility, where they learn basic vehicle maintenance and emergency roadside safety. Students gain hands-on experience checking oil, changing tires, and jump-starting vehicles.
Brizendine also highlighted the dedication of the program’s classroom and behind-the-wheel instructors, who balance full-time careers and personal responsibilities while dedicating their evenings and weekends to driver education.
“Their patience, dedication, and willingness to go above and beyond are what make this program possible,” Brizendine said.
Through its partnerships with local safety professionals and law enforcement, Odessa College aims to provide students with practical knowledge that extends beyond the classroom and helps promote safer roads throughout the community.
“Ultimately, we hope these experiences leave a lasting impact on our students. Through education, preparation, and community collaboration, we're not just helping teenagers earn their driver's licenses; we're building on 66 years of tradition while working to create safer roads, more responsible drivers, and a stronger foundation for generations to come,” Brizendine said.
For more information about Odessa College Workforce & Continuing Education programs, click here!