Enrico Fermi seniors could potentially get more than a degree at the end of the school year.

Gary Rome Auto Group and Enrico Fermi High school have come to an agreement that should spur Seniors on to ending their school yearon a high note , with a new car .

After last year’sFourth of July parade , the employees at the car dealership had set up a booth to give out t-shirts and other types of shwag to local teens . According to manager , Peter Towle , the interest in the cars was peaked and he and Principal Newton discussed an “ incentive to stay in school and do a good job” during a brainstorming session . This student recognition program will award one graduating senior with a new KIA Soul at the conclusion of their senior year.

“ We are looking to reward students who have been good students in all aspects , academic , attendance , and behavior , ” said Principal Newton .

The requirements are strict . Students must maintain a grade point average 8 or higher ( B ) , they have to have six or less absences for their senior year, no disciplinary referrals , be involved in at least two school clubs or teams etc , and have to complete 40 hours of community service in the Enfield area .

“ It was our hope that if we could get a minimum of fifty students to each perform 40 hours of community service , that Fermi students would then have performed more than 2000 hours of service to the Enfield community . ”

Gary Rome Auto Group is actively involved in the town o f Enfield in a few areas . Towle said it’s all part of a interdependent relationship the business has with the town . “ It will keep the kids interested , help the town a little bit , it’s a win-win situation . ”

The car to be give away is a 2010 Kia Soul which is presently sitting on the lot decorated in decals .

The contest will conclude as part of the pre-Senior prom assembly in mid- May . Ten finalists will be selected from all who are eligible and then the excitement begins . Said Towle , “ Each one will receive a key one of which will open the car . ”

When asked how a dealership can donate a car in these troubled economic time , Towle responded by saying , “ It’s not easy but we feel it’s important . The community keeps us going - we feel we have to give back . ”

Just in case other Seniors in town are jealous , don’t worry . Gary Rome Auto group plans to offer this same incentive to Enfield High School next yearand then rotate back and forth between the schools every year.

“ We are very excited to have Gary Rome as our partner in this exciting venture , ” said Principal Paul Newton . “ We are also extremely proud of the students at Enrico Fermi High School and are fortunate to have so many of them who are willing to volunteer within the Enfield community . ”