WHS teacher wins new car

Ted Stephens' new car

WHS teacher Ted Stephens was surprised with a new car by CBS Channel 11 and TXA 21 during school on Tuesday.  He was selected as one of the winners in their “Teachers Driving Success” contest and will drive home in a 2006 Chevy Cobalt.  Teaming up with driversselect, the stations are giving a car away a week for 12 weeks.  Mr. Stephens is the fourth winner so far.   

Among a sea of cheerleaders, co-workers and cameras, Mr. Stephens, was met by his wife, Melissa, and daughters, Hannah and Micah, to celebrate the news.  

“Thank goodness we received advance notice of his selection,” said Melissa Stephens.  “The look on his face is priceless.” 

Brian King, the student who nominated Mr. Stephens for the contest was also on hand to share the news.  He wrote an essay about the influence Mr. Stephens had on his life and why he wanted to make a difference in his.   

“Mr. Stephens challenged me to raise my level of expectation of myself and of others,” said Mr. King.  “He will forever be a great mentor and life-long friend.”   

Mr. King graduated from WHS in 2007. 

Apparently, a new car is just the difference Mr. Stephens needed.  His car, a 1989 Pontiac Bonneville, broke down on the way to work last week.  With the help from a parent, he was able to get it started again but he wasn’t sure how much longer the car will last. 

Nomination essays were placed on the CBS 11 t.v. website where people could vote for their favorite educator.  

“Thank you to Brian and all of Wylie that not only voted for me, but campaigned for me,” said Mr. Stephens.  “This is an awesome blessing that my family and I truly appreciate.”

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Additional footage of the give away and interview will be available on line at http://cbs11tv.com/contests/local_story_254194759.html.