Leland Middle School students get a lesson in safety

Leland eighth graders took a break from math, science, and English for a lesson in safety.

The program focused on underage drinking, drugs, and driving safety. The Alcoholic Beverage Control Commission taught students the dangers of drinking and driving.

Then, the North Carolina Trucking Association presented the No-Zone program. Students got to take turns hopping in the driver’s seat to see why it is important to avoid truck drivers’ blind spots.

“Now I see what he’s talking about when he says a blind spot,” said Tyaun Bryant, an 8th grader at Leland. “Now I understand fully what they mean when truck drivers say they can’t see, because when I look down there, I see nothing.”

Program organizers said even though these kids are not old enough to drive, it is important to instill in them the rules of the road, and of course it is always a good idea to wear a seatbelt.