About Us

The idea for the program came in school year 1999-2000. While I was working with youth in Oakland, California, many complained that they were tired of taking the bus or begging their parents to drive them places. They wanted to drive, but their high school was no longer offering driver education classes and private driving schools wanted too much money for a class that was normally provided by their school. As youth expressed their need, the idea was formed to start a nonprofit program that would help youth get their driver permit and license as a way of rewarding them for academic improvement. Our dream became a reality with our first driver education class in October 2002. Over 3,000 Los Angeles youth have taken one of our classes.

Today’s youth are no different from when I was their age. They might not be clear on what they want to do after high school, but they are clear that they want to drive.

As founder of the program, I have spent the past eighteen years helping youth develop their character, employable skills and increase opportunities through community colleges and community based agencies in northern and southern California. I truly believe our program can make a significant contribution to your students’ academic and vocational progress. Our staff consisting of Mrs. Payge Hopper (Region Coordinator), and assistants from various high schools and colleges are dedicated to help students succeed.

I am pleased to have Driver Education to Graduation functioning as a nonprofit foundation recognized by the State of California. Once a student completes our two-week class, he or she may participate in free afterschool math tutoring or program workshops. Students can also receive discounts on driver training based on school attendance.

It is my hope and prayer that every youth find their purpose in life and do something productive after graduating from high school. In order to be competitive in the present global economy, everyone needs to do something after high school, whether it be earning a 6 or 9-month certificate, or obtaining an associate or bachelor degree, our youth must start preparing while in high school. I truly believe that the future of our nation rests in how well we as a people invest in the lives of our youth today.

Michael L. Hopper, MSW
Founder and Program Director