CAR DEALER-TEACHER TEAM WINS EDUCATION AWARD.

Byline: Daily News

San Fernando High School and Galpin Ford were honored Wednesday by the Economic Alliance of the San Fernando Valley for their successful partnership that has put dozens of teens on the path to good careers.

``We are really proud,'' said Jose Rodriguez, principal of San Fernando.

In describing the partnership, Karl Boeckmann, Galpin Ford vice president, said: ``It's a wonderful thing that happened because it truly started out of friendship.''

About 15 years ago, Boeckmann teamed up with San Fernando High School automotive teacher Russell Martin, recruiting students and providing technical kits for them. Since then, more than two dozen San Fernando graduates have moved on to Galpin jobs and twice that number have gone on to Pierce College's automotive program.

``Without this program, I don't have a way of putting a lot of kids to work,'' Martin said. ``Without the program, why would a lot of them come to class?''

The Economic Alliance congratulated Galpin personnel for hands-on commitment to improving education.

``We want to not just recognize people who wrote a check but those that really spent time and effort to make a difference,'' said Tyree Wieder, president of Valley College and board member of the alliance.

The alliance annually recognizes businesses and K-12 schools in the San Fernando Valley that show commitment to improving education.

The alliance gave The Valley of the Stars Business/Education Partnership Award plaques to Boeckmann, on behalf of Galpin, and Martin, for the school, which also received a $2,500 prize.

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Galpin Ford Vice President Karl Boeckmann, left, and teacher Russ Martin show their plaques awarded Wednesday for an outstanding automotive-education program at San Fernando High. Principal Jose Rodriguez, right, also was honored.

Daily News