DAUPHIN — Students at a Manitoba high school have a major incentive to show up for class — they could start their summer driving a truck.

Kids with 90 per cent attendance at Dauphin Regional Comprehensive Secondary School are entered in a draw to win the vehicle at the end of the year.

Teacher Patty Goodine says the incentive program started four years ago and there’s been a 20 per cent increase in attendance.

She says local dealerships provide the grand prize.

There are other reasons to show up for class.

Students with perfect attendance in a week are eligible to win iPads, GoPro cameras or gift certificates.

Goodine says those are more attainable and help students work towards the big final draw.

“Our motto is if you are here we can build relationships,” she said.

“The idea behind this is to help guide the students and help them become successful and graduate and to open doors to many options for their future.”

Grade 10 student Zach Zurba took home a 2004 Chevy Avalanche truck on Friday.

Five other students maintained perfect attendance all year — one for three years in a row — and they each ended their school year with gift packages donated by the community and valued at more than $1,000.

“Our main goal is to get students here so we can be a support to them,” Goodine said.

“And I think everybody recognizes, obviously our sponsors recognize, the importance of attendance because they are willing and eager to give.”

The Canadian Press