top of page

ABOUT BURGESS DRIVING SCHOOL

unnamed (2).jpg

Burgess Driving School is a state of Illinois recognized training facility, conveniently located, and staffed by friendly, experienced personnel.  We use up-to-date training methods and equipment to focus on individual student needs in a non-threatening atmosphere to provide all students with a great learning experience.  Our goal is to help create new generations of safe drivers. Burgess Driving School is owned and operated by Doug and Rachel Burgess.

OWNERS/MANAGERS
LOCATION
head shot.jpg

Doug Burgess

Owner/Lead Instructor

Doug Burgess is the founder and Lead Instructor for Burgess Driving School.  A Law Enforcement veteran for over 20 years, Doug has a passion for helping and educating people.  Doug has worked in many divisions within the police field but believes his true calling is in instructing and teaching others to be the safest, most complete drivers on the road.

Rachel Burgess

Owner/Business Manager

rachel head shot_edited.jpg

Rachel Burgess is the Manager of Burgess Driving School in charge of reception and scheduling.  With a degree in education and experience as a former Children's Ministry Director, Rachel uses her skills to create a fun, professional atmosphere while organizing all materials to make each student's experience great.  

debbie photo.jpg

Debbie Barnes

Office Manager

We are located at 111 W. Washington St. Suite 220, in the heart of East Peoria on the corner of Main and Washington Streets.  Conveniently nestled within sight of shopping, restaurants, a bicycle trail, and Interstate 74, we offer a large lighted parking lot and plenty of things to do within walking distance.  Drop your student off and walk to some of the great businesses that share our parking lot or go across the street for more options.  If you want more, we are minutes away from the ever popular East Peoria Levy District including WalMart, Bass Pro Shops, Kohl's, Lowes, Target, Costco and hundreds of meal options.

Debbie Barnes is the Office Manager at Burgess Driving School assisting with all aspects of daily operations. A graduate of Bradley University with a degree in communication, Debbie has a wide range of knowledge and experience from corporate communications to ministry administration. Debbie is married to Jeff and is a mom of two teenagers so she understands the excitement and stress of having a new driver in the house. Debbie is always ready to help and answer any questions you may have.

ADDITIONAL STAFF
trish photo_edited.jpg

Trish Taylor

Instructor

 

Trish Taylor is a retired Peoria Police Officer after 29 years. In her final year of service she received the American Legion officer of the year award. Trish spent time in patrol, vice and narcotics and was a member of the special response team. Trish enjoyed her eight years serving as a field training officer teaching new officers how to do the job professionally and effectively. Trish has a passion for teaching people new things and is very patient. She looks forward to working with Burgess Driving School with both teen and adult drivers.

 

ac-scott-w.chief-heffner2C-lt-brian-brown2C-sgt-ivy-thornton_1471030859894_10233829_ver1_e

Ivy Thornton

Instructor

Ivy Thornton is a 19 year law enforcement veteran who continues to serve as a Sergeant in the Patrol Division.  A resident of East Peoria, Ivy is passionate about the community she serves as well as the community she lives in.  With two teen drivers in the family, Ivy understands what it takes to develop the skills necessary to be safe and courteous while behind the wheel.  Ivy is excited to join Burgess Driving School and continue educating new drivers.  

Photo-Image-Coming-Soon-Icon-1-300x281.jpg

Jared is a current police officer in the area specializing in traffic enforcement.  Additionally, Jared is certified as a police driving instructor teaching law enforcement professionals the keys to safe driving in all types of emergency situations.  Jared looks forward to using his skills to help make other drivers safe behind the wheel. 

Jared Moore

Instructor

bottom of page