PHOENIX — Today was not the day to skip class at Paradise Valley High School.
"Oh my gosh, he's here!"
NASCAR is returning to the Phoenix Raceway this weekend for the 2024 season finale and this morning, seven-time champion Jimmie Johnson made a pit-stop at the high school's auto shop.
“Where we race, we try and go back into the communities and help a variety of different causes," Johnson said.
Johnson took a lap around the shop to see the cars and projects students are working on.
“I had so many relationships within school and my teachers, especially my auto shop teacher that really helped me chase my passion and pursue what I wanted to do," Johnson said.
The students got to chat with the NASCAR legend during his visit.
“He also taught us how to be responsible and show up on time and how to be prepared for what is yet to come," one of the students told 12News.
But that's not all they got to do.
“They haven’t seen this yet, they are not aware of the car and the check yet so when that moment happens it’s going to be quite cool," Johnson told 12News.
Johnson's sponsor, Carvana, gifted Paradise Valley High School a new auto shop car and $10,000.
Vinnie Gaffney, a teacher at Paradise Valley High School, said the donation will have a huge impact on the program.
“I can’t believe – this is pretty good. I’m pretty happy," Gaffney said.
It's safe to say this NASCAR legend gained a few more fans.
“I’m excited to be here. This will be my ninth race here for the team," Johnson said. "We have had a lot of growing take place this year and we’re very excited to finish off the year strong.”
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