South’s Driver’s Ed was recognized as best in the state by Secretary of State Jesse White on Oct. 23.

“Glenbrook South High School has an innovative driver education program that works to encourage safe and responsible teen drivers,” a Secretary of State press release said.

According to John Skorupa, department assistant for driver’s education, 99 percent of South student pass the driver’s test on the first try, which is the highest in the state.

Skorupa said another way South’s program exceeded the state’s expectations was by using new methods of teaching, such as  goggles which simulate intoxication while the students drive golf carts.

“The drunk driving in the golf cart was really scary,” senior Susie Hawkes said. “It pretty much turned me off to drinking and driving forever.”

Along with his dedication to safe student driving, Skorupa wants parents to be able to have an easy mind with their child at the wheel.

“For many years, there has been a perception that Driver’s Ed is just a joke,” Skorupa said. “One of the things that I focused on when I got here [11 years ago] was to dispel some of that and give the course some validity.”