Perfect Attendance Earns Achieve Early College High School Student a Brand-New Car

McAllen, TX — One local high school student drove away in a brand-new 2025 Ford Escape during the Drive Sames for Education Car Giveaway Finale, hosted at the McAllen Convention Center in partnership with McAllen Independent School District and Sames McAllen Ford.

This marks the first year the Drive Sames for Education program has been implemented in the McAllen area. However, the initiative has made a lasting impact across South Texas for more than 12 years, in cities like Laredo, Bastrop, and Corpus Christi,TX. Since the program’s inception, Sames Auto Group has awarded over 29 vehicles to students with perfect attendance.

Throughout the 2024–2025 school year, high school students with perfect attendance earned vouchers—up to five per student—for a chance to win the grand prize. Nearly 1,000 students from Achieve Early College High School, McAllen High School, Memorial High School and Nikki Rowe High School turned in their vouchers at the dealership. From that group, 11 finalists were selected to move on to the final phase of the drawing.

Each finalist received a special gift, and one student received the ultimate reward—a 2025 Ford Escape, proudly sponsored by Sames Ford, Texas’ oldest Ford dealership.

Congratulations to Cesar Castilla from Achieve Early College High School! Because of their commitment to showing up every day, they are now the proud owner of a brand-new Ford Bronco.

“At Sames Auto Group, our commitment to supporting local education runs deep,” said Ivan Quinonez, General Manager of Sames McAllen Ford. “For 115 years, we’ve invested in future generations because we believe education is the cornerstone of a thriving community. It’s inspiring to see so many students show up every day and earn this recognition. Education is a powerful tool that opens doors and transcends all boundaries.”

Sames McAllen Ford has generously covered the tax, title, and license fees, ensuring the winner could take home their prize without any financial burden.

“We are deeply grateful to Sames for their incredible partnership and generosity. Their support not only rewards one of our students with a brand-new Ford Escape, but also reinforces the importance of dedication and daily attendance. This partnership truly reflects the best of what we can achieve together.” said  Dr. Gutierrez Superintendent for McAllen ISD.

The Drive Sames for Education program exemplifies the impact of strong partnerships between businesses and schools. By celebrating academic commitment and consistency, the initiative sends a clear message: showing up matters.

As Sames Auto Group continues its tradition of giving back, the organization remains firmly rooted in its belief that investing in students today helps build stronger communities tomorrow. The 2025 finale in McAllen, TX is just the beginning of what will surely become a new tradition in this vibrant Rio Grande Valley.