Meet The Instructors
Our team of experienced instructors is made up of current and former ISD 196 teachers, bringing over 70 years of combined experience in behind-the-wheel driver education. Each of us has dedicated our careers to teaching and mentoring young people—whether in the classroom, on the field as coaches, or in the driver’s seat. At South Metro Driving School, we’re proud to bring that same passion and expertise to helping new drivers gain the skills and confidence they need to stay safe on the road.
Program Director Mr. Chris Scanlon
I have been a lifelong member of the ISD 196 community as a student, teacher, and parent. Since 2002, I have taught in the district’s Business Department, covering a wide range of business education courses. For the past nine years, I have also been teaching classroom driver education, combining my passion for teaching with preparing students for safe driving.
Outside of the classroom, I grew up playing soccer, hockey, and golf, and went on to play college soccer while earning my bachelor’s degree at Drake University. I later completed my Master’s in Education at Mankato State University and received my Driver Education certification from St. Cloud State University.
I started South Metro Driving School to fill the need left when ISD 196 ended its behind-the-wheel program. My goal is to provide students with a superior educational experience that blends skill, confidence, and safety.
Instructor Mark Groebner
Hi, I’m Mark Groebner, and I’m currently in my 26th year of teaching at Eastview High School. I’ve spent the last couple of years teaching Safety Education and Behind-the-Wheel, and I’ve loved every minute of helping students gain confidence behind the wheel.
I earned my first Master’s Degree in Applied Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota, and my second in Health Education from Minnesota State University. When I’m not teaching or out on the road, I’m usually on the field — I also coach Freshman Football at Eastview.
Outside of school, I’m a proud dad of four. Two of my kids have graduated from Eastview — my oldest son plays hockey at Army West Point, and my oldest daughter plays at Gustavus Adolphus. My third is still at Eastview, and my youngest keeps us laughing at Falcon Ridge Middle School.
Whether it’s in the classroom, on the field, or in the car, I try to keep things light, positive, and focused on growth. Learning to drive can be stressful — but with a little patience (and maybe a few dad jokes), we’ll get you there safely and confidently.
Instructor Mr. Paul Trewick
I was born in St. Cloud, Minnesota, and have dedicated over 40 years to teaching and coaching in ISD 196. Much of my career has been spent as a program director and instructor in driver education, along with teaching business and physical education. With decades of experience, I am proud to be one of the most knowledgeable and seasoned driver education instructors in the state.
I earned my bachelor’s degree in education from St. Cloud State University, a master’s degree from St. Thomas University, and my Driver Education Certification from St. Cloud State University. My passion lies in helping young people learn—not only how to drive, but also how to think about safety, responsibility, and life. Every lesson is an opportunity to shape safer drivers and, in turn, safer roads.
Behind-The-Wheel Lesson in the South Metro Twin Cities area have always been in high demand and with the closure of the ISD 196 Driving Program - demand will continue to grow. SMDS is currently hiring Driving Instructors to meet this demand and keep BTW wait times low, ideally so students can complete their Behind-The-Wheel Lessons within a month or two of requesting to Schedule BTW Lessons. If you or someone you know is interested in joining our Elite Staff of Licensed Driver Education Instructors, Contact SMDS Directly for more information. The most streamlined process to become a Behind-The-Wheel Driving Instructor is Driver Education Teaching Certification and Licensure through St. Cloud State University.