THIS IS A SAMPLE OF ONE REGIONS PROMOTION & PROGRESSION CRITERIA
North Country Region - PCA
Connecticut Valley Region - PCA
These are North Country Region guidelines for skill levels expected in DE Run Groups. These are the levels of accomplishment we look for in promoting a driver to a higher Run Group. It is understood that drivers within each group will be at varying levels of achievement.
Sign offs and promotions can occur in several ways. A student may request a review of their skills from their instructor (or from the Chief Instructor if already signed off in an upper level and requesting to move to a higher group). Alternatively, an instructor can recommend a sign off or promotion, generally after discussion with the driver. The instructor would indicate this on the student evaluation (upper level promotions require consultation with the chief instructor and a written evaluation by the check-out instructor).
A newly signed off student driver will remain in Green or Yellow for that event, using two colored dots to acknowledge the sign off, and depending on the circumstances may or may not be promoted to the next level at the next event. Changes in run groups during an event are generally not possible because of flagging assignments, but in exceptional circumstances arrangements may be made. One day sign offs are also an option, where the instructor and student agree it will be beneficial for the student to run alone for a session(s), yet still require additional instruction at future events.
NCR's policy is that students signed off (for a day or a session) in Green do not automatically progress to Yellow, or cease to require an instructor. Students will be promoted to Yellow when they meet the criteria and can expect continued instruction in Yellow as part of NCR's instructional program. The goal of Driver's Education is to assist each driver in learning and improving their skill level to the best of their ability. Students can expect to spend a minimum of 5 days in Green with or under observation by an instructor.
Green
Drives the line consistently and correctly (with no help for one session).
Drives at an appropriate pace for the group.
Demonstrates smooth inputs and finesse.
Makes only the odd minor mistake and self corrects.
Calm in traffic and passing situations.
Anticipates the effects of a slower car in front.
Does not follow too closely when far from a passing zone.
Neither gives nor accepts late passing signals.
Gives passing signals promptly without being reminded.
Passes with good safety margins.
Exhibits good manners and consideration for other drivers.
Displays full knowledge of procedures, flags and driving terminology.
Is safe to drive alone.
Yellow
Drivers in Yellow are expected to polish their driving skills, increase their confidence and learn more advanced techniques as a pre-requisite to being promoted to White. The skills described below are not expected in every Yellow driver, rather only those who are deemed ready for promotion and are in addition to those expected for a Green driver. Promotion to White requires a positive recommendation from a NCR instructor and approval by the Chief Instructor. Students can expect a minimum of several full days of instruction, at least 4 solo days, and are encouraged to request further instruction while in yellow.
Drives the line consistently using the full track.
Very smooth inputs with emphasis on proper braking.
Uses Ocular Vision techniques (looking ahead) in most corners.
Carries reasonable momentum into corners.
Practices heel and toe braking/downshifting without serious imbalance of the car.
Demonstrates competent car control and recovery skills as needed.
Prompt and courteous passing signals.
Good driving record for two events minimum.
Calmly deals with faster traffic and close passing situations.
Demonstrates full compliance with North Country Region DE philosophy.
White
The White Run Group is frequently characterized by a wide range of skills and experience, as drivers gain seat time and work on advancing skills. White drivers will be working toward improved consistency, use of Vision and the use of momentum. The following are additions to the skills of Green and Yellow which distinguish a competent driver ready for promotion from White to Black. A student can expect to spend one active season in this group.
Has requested continued instruction and demonstrates continuing improvement.
Drives the line flawlessly and effortlessly.
Uses Ocular Vision techniques most of the time.
Very smooth inputs both at medium and higher speeds.
Uses and can demonstrate trail braking, throttle steer and heel and toe techniques.
Carries considerable momentum through corners.
Can safely vary the line in any corner (to avoid debris for example).
Calmly deals with cars in close proximity.
Drives at a pace appropriate to the group and approaching the limitations of their car.
Displays a courteous, respectful attitude, avoiding intimidation and overly aggressive behavior.
Black
Promotion to Black requires a positive recommendation from a NCR Instructor and approval by the Chief Instructor. Drivers in the Black Run Group are expected to be expert in all the driving skills taught by NCR. The experienced Black driver should be indistinguishable from the average driver in Red. Some Black drivers are in fact NCR Instructors. Some drivers will choose to remain in black, perfecting their skills, and others will apply to become instructors.
Red (Instructor)
There is an established procedure for applying to become a North Country Region Instructor, either as a new instructor or as an experienced instructor from another region. The program description, criteria and application form are available from NCR's Chief Instructor, and application can be made at any time.
Copyright 2001 by Ellen Beck and Robert Rouleau
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