Students at Effingham County High School got some serious life lessons during the Teen Maze held at the school on Wednesday.
The Teen Maze is an annual county event that is designed to give teenagers a better understanding of the risks associated with drinking, drugs and other risky behaviors.
In the game the students experience consequences of the bad choices, including going to “jail”, facing a judge and for some, death.
Some students were “sentenced” to community service and were required to take drug and alcohol counseling. Anti-bullying, social media tips and finishing school were also part of the event.
A “graduation” ceremony for each student who finished was also held, complete with cap, gown and diploma.
Students also participated in a drunk driving simulation led by the Effingham County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Enforcement Unit. Members of the unit who participated included, Bryan Mundy, Mike Kendricks, Daryl Brown and John Peny.
Students wore goggles made to simulate the effect of alcohol consumption on the body. They were required to take field sobriety tests performed by the deputies and drive a golf cart through an obstacle course.
Effingham High Principal Yancy Ford said the event was a group effort.
“I am very thankful for the volunteers in our community and school,” Ford said. “We are blessed to have a dedicated staff that care so much about the safety of our students. I believe today was a success. Our kids were receptive to the educational experience they participated in today at ECHS. Drive Safe!”