GADSDEN, Ala. (AP) — An Alabama student got more than good grades for working hard in the classroom — she got a free car.
Etowah High School senior Maleah Johnson was awarded a used vehicle by an area car dealership because of her academic performance.
Staying on the school’s A/B honor roll earned her entries into a drawing by Devan Lowe Cadillac Buick GMC, and she was awarded a 2016 Buick Verano by the company on Wednesday.
Johnson’s eyes teared up and she put her hands to her face in shock when she stepped through the school’s front doors and realized she had won the contest.
“I’m so excited,” she told the Gadsden Times. “I feel blessed.”
The teenager says the car will help her make the drive to Snead State Community College when she starts attending the school in the fall. She plans to start her education in health service administration.
Mother Jacqueline Hale said she couldn’t be prouder.
“She deserves it,” Hale said. “She serves her school and her church and her family so much. She’s an amazing young woman.”
Johnson maintained an A in every class this year, and was able to enter into the contest after every nine-week report went out.
Devan Lowe has held the giveaway for 11 years, providing a vehicle to a graduating senior from an Etowah County school.
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Information from: The Gadsden Times, http://www.gadsdentimes.com