It’s a chance for instructors to encourage them, listen to them, and connect them to local resources.
BOWIE, Md. — Beltway Driving Academy is much more than a driving school. It’s a Black-owned business that’s been around for 10 years serving the community in much needed ways.
Calvin Ming, the lead instructor says they often see students who are not doing so well in school or at home. Students of all ages are taught to drive but leave with life lessons that travel far beyond the wheel.
“We are able to teach individuals coming out of jail, getting their license back for the first time so helping them integrating them with civilian life,” Ming said.
It’s a chance for instructors to encourage them, listen to them, and connect them to local resources. Like churches, organizations or after school programs.
“We understand we are a driving school but we want to plant a seed. A seed that grows into the community,” Ming said
Asia Mister is a senior in high school, she says her driving lessons prepares her for the real world.
“We learn you need to be aware of your surroundings, to know the people you’re going to be around and to expect the unexpected,” Mister said.
“Black History Month is a special time, and we want to be able to showcase that we are doing it well. If you can see me, as a Black man, doing it well, then you can do it,” Ming said.
The business believes in building meaningful relationships with students and their families in the community. If you’d like to learn more about the program, click here.
