MEET OUR STAFF
Committed To Educating Drivers
We have an outstanding team of dedicated instructors, all of whom are determined to help students succeed and be safe drivers. Our team members offer knowledge, support and guidance in each student's learning style. Our goal is to provide a positive learning environment for students so they can become successful and responsible in the step toward independence.
DON PROUTY
Founder
Don began pursuing the idea of starting a commercial driver's training school after entering the education profession in Bismarck and teaching driver’s ed to young students. In 1970, Don and his wife, Bernie, opened Don’s Driving School. Don was an educator and instructor for almost 50 years. He passed away October 22, 2019.
DANELL BECKER
Owner & Instructor
Danell joined her parents at the driving school in 1981, and has been the operating owner since 1999. She had aspirations of a teaching career since childhood.
“Teaching people to drive has been incredibly rewarding. I love seeing students gain confidence in their abilities and decisions in traffic."
AUDREY KROLL
Instructor
Audrey has been an instructor at Don’s Driving School since 2010. She made a career change when she realized she wanted to make a positive difference in people’s lives.
"I enjoy working with the students and especially love to see their faces after their first successful parallel park! Don’s Driving School has been a wonderful place to work; great staff and great students."
PAMELA IHMELS
Instructor
Pamela has been an instructor at Don’s Driving School since 1995! She has been a physical education teacher in the Bismarck School system since 1982. Over her many years as an educator, she has had the privilege of teaching her young students both health and safety!
"I thoroughly enjoy seeing the growth in students with their driving skills and their confidence in their decision-making process. Working with the staff at Don’s Driving School has been a pleasure."
JON KRANTZ
Instructor
Jon Krantz has been teaching with Don's Driving School since 2012. He is also a Physical Education Specialist with Bismarck Public Schools. His work with students and understanding of the need for safety on the roads make him a great fit for the team.
"It's exciting to be a part of helping young drivers develop the skills they need to become safe drivers."
BRADY GUDGEL
Instructor
Brady joined our staff in 2018. He graduated from Minot State University with a degree in Music Education with a concentration in Driver’s Education and Traffic Safety. He is also a music teacher with Bismarck Public Schools. His passion for helping students and friendly demeanor have made him a good fit for our staff!
“As a teacher in general, we live to see those “light bulb” moments in students, and to see it in the classroom and behind the wheel is incredibly rewarding for both the student and the teacher.”
CONTACT US!
Have questions? If there's anything you'd like to know about our programs for teens or adults, please get in touch. You can call, email or fill in the form and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
(701) 223-5304