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The high school freshman won a car Thursday in a raffle among students who had perfect attendance for the year.
Unfortunately, he couldn't drive the car home afterward; the 14-year-old Leesburg student won't have his learner's permit until late this summer.
The 1987 Pontiac Bonneville, provided by Lakeside Chevrolet, was the grand prize among a heap of other giveaways provided as part of the school's second year of the Renaissance Recognition incentive program.
The Bonneville, valued at $3,900, includes new brakes, power windows, AC and cruise control.
Lursen is likely one of the most deserving kids who were eligible for the car. He said he enjoys being at school and has attained perfect attendance "several times" in past years.
"There was actually one day I didn't feel that great, but I went anyways because days are hard to miss and make up the work," he said.
Lursen got the keys to the car after a schoolwide convocation in which his name was drawn in a raffle. His assessment of the prize was simple: "It's nice," he said.
More than 1,000 students were recognized for their achievements during Thursday's program. A TV, CD player and camera were among other top prizes given in random drawings to students for achievements in citizenship, attendance, and A and B students.
Teachers were recognized with gift certificates.
Although such incentives a few years ago were unheard of, school officials feel the overall program is making a difference.
Last year, about two dozen students were eligible for a color televison for the reward for perfect attendance. This year, 42 students managed to keep perfect attendance and remain in the running for the car.
"It's working. We have higher numbers in every category this year than last year," said Sandy Carmichael, coordinator of guidance at the high school.
Most of the kids who qualified have had good attendance in the past, said Chuck DeFord, assistant principal. The incentive, he said, enables the school to "catch the people on the fringe who might not have missed a day and maybe made a sacrifice and came in anyhow."
"It made a difference," Deford said.
Whether a car will be offered again next year remains undecided. But officials were pleased with the results.
"It will get bigger and better," Carmichael said.
Students cited for top academic excellence included freshmen Laura Overton and Nathan Ridderman, sophomores Jessica Zaugg and Aaron Swayer, juniors Sarah Barber and Scott Davison, and seniors Jill Sibray and Kevin Masur.
Suzi Byrd was selected as the high school volunteer of the year.
