Chapel Hill High School of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, has been named the 2023 School of the Year in a national competition sponsored by WIX Filters, O’Reilly Auto Parts, and Tomorrow’s Technician, reports the Daily Tar Heel.
Vice President of Sales and Marketing for WIX Daryl Benton said that the annual competition seeks out programs from across the country that are helping elevate the next generation of automotive technicians. He noted the impressive growth seen in Chapel Hill High School’s auto program, jumping from just 35 students a couple of years ago to now over 100.
Instructor Robert Ballard has been credited with being a pillar for the program and having a strong commitment to his students. Last year, Ballard was also awarded the Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools Teacher of the Year award.
Students in Ballard’s class are taught all areas of the National Institute of Automotive Service Excellence's certification, including brakes, electrical suspension, and engine performance diagnostics.
Along with the School of the Year title, the school received a donation of $10,000 and gear from WIX. Ballard said the school plans to divide the money for three purposes: tools and equipment, providing funds for students to attend a SkillsUSA competition this month and building the school’s new racing program.
“It was a roller coaster ride this year, the different things that have happened,” said Ballard, “and I appreciate all the students that support the program and come every day and have a great attitude, who are interested in working on cars.”
