By Kristina Stucki, contributor
Sam Leigh, who operated a driving school on the island from 2011 to 2017, is offering driving coaching to new drivers, young and old. With her driving school car fixed up and its passenger-side brake ready to go, “Coach Sam” is ready to take on new clients for driving practice.
Although she’s not offering a full driving school this time, Leigh is still excited to help drivers through the process of permitting and licensing and help supervise driving practice. She is offering packages for older drivers, who might have missed out on learning to drive for one reason or another, as well as teenagers learning for the first time who need their 100 hours of practice before getting a license.
“I’m putting together a 50-hour package for parents with new drivers that will include pickup and drop-off over the course of six months, with 30-45 minute sessions,” Leigh explained. “I believe small amounts more often can build up the many levels of knowledge and strengthen a new foundation.”
Leigh dusted off the driving car because her nephew is turning 16 in March. Her gift to him is teaching him to drive. She figured she may as well help the community while she’s at it. So she and her husband, Paul, overhauled the driving school car and got the passenger-side brake working again.
“I used that thing all the time while operating my driving school!” Leigh laughed about the passenger-side brake. “Honestly, my foot was in a constant hover above that brake. So much so that my shin is somewhat overdeveloped!”
She went on to explain that she’s also trained to take over the wheel when necessary, and especially to stay calm for the driver no matter what.
“Staying calm is the ultimate for learning driving skills,” she said. “I still practice every day the established ‘remembers’ and other proven techniques that can help new drivers stay calm and drive smoothly. Because hoping for the best is not an option. Prevention is key.”
Leigh will not be offering driving exams or training courses but will offer off-island (with pickup/drop-off) driving practice and help drivers with the permitting and licensing process.
Those looking for driving coaching can reach her by emailing drivecoachsam@gmail.com or texting 360-298-4399.