The SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) program is a teen-run, peer-to-peer program focusing on increasing teen restraint compliance through education, positive rewards and enforcement. It is designed to bring awareness to the importance of wearing a seatbelt, therefore reducing the number of motor vehicle-related injuries and fatalities among Kansas teens. Clearwater High School’s Tate Martin first got involved in the program during his sophomore year. He felt it was an important message his classmates should follow.

“I thought it was important for me to get involved because I like to be a leader and practice what the SAFE program teaches,” said Martin. “I’ve enjoyed getting to know more kids in school and creating a relationship with Officer Harp.”

The members participating in the program enjoy interacting with their peers and promoting the SAFE message.

“We like to get the school involved as much as we can with activities like the think fast game show the came to the school and interacted with the students and Booster Rooster program that we did for our elementary kids,” said Martin.

Also involved in other activities, Martin finds a balance between academics, sports and other clubs he’s involved in at Clearwater.

“I am a part of the student council club as a SAFE Sadd representative, and I am also a part of the Junior class prom committee that planned our prom and set it all up. I play football, run and do triple jump in track. In my freshman year, I played basketball,” said Martin.

Once his high school days come to an end, Martin plans to take over the family business after spending some time in college studying business.

“I am a Junior in high school, and I have a strong work ethic. This pushes me to take over my dad’s construction business over later down the road. I would like to take some college classes for business after graduation to proceed with my goal,” said Martin.

Away from school, Martin enjoys spending time with friends and family or working as much as his schedule will allow.