Representatives from the Allstate Insurance Foundation and their master of ceremonies, C.J. Connell, challenged Westlake High School students in the Chap Court Friday to pledge not to text and drive.

“I want to make this school number one in the nation with the most number of pledges not to text while driving,” Connell said, catching the attention of students heading into lunch.

Allstate executives were at WHS to present a $100,000 check to two programs the company supports in Central Texas, Alive at 25 and X the Text, to help foster safe teen driving initiatives.

Among those present to support the safe driving programs were Austin Police Department Chief Art Acevedo, Travis County Sheriff’s officers, Department of Public Safety officers, Travis County Precinct 3 Constable Richard McCain and Austin-Travis County EMS personnel.

“Thumbs Up” is a national tour focused on engaging teens and their parents to promise not to text and drive during the upcoming holiday season. Alive at 25 teaches teens to recognize unsafe driving habits and make good choices.