Elementary students across Boulder and Broomfield Counties will celebrate International Walk to School Day on the morning of October 8. More than 3 million worldwide and 5,000 walkers and cyclists locally at 31 local kindergarten through eighth grade schools are expected to take part in this festive, annual event.
“Walk to School Day is a great way to celebrate the simple act of walking to school," explains event coordinator, Fawnda Hathaway. "It’s healthful and fun at the same time …the kids loves it!”
What began in 1994 as a small experiment by parent activists in a London (UK) suburb has mushroomed into a worldwide happening that takes place in 40 countries such as China, Mexico, Israel, and South Africa.
With the threat of global warming, spikes in gas prices, and worries about childhood health, the simple act of walking and cycling to school has taken on new significance. Thus the school community walks with a purpose: 1) to raise awareness about active transportation options; 2) to increase the physical activity of our students; and 3) to show concern for our Rocky Mountain environment.
Walk to School Day offers an opportunity to slow down and enjoy the routine trip to school. Parents have expressed support to have extra time with their children, to reduce traffic, and contribute to safer school zones. However, elementary children find walking and cycling fun and liberating. It’s for good reason that walking is known as the “world’s simplest exercise.”
Landon Hilliard, BVSD Student Transportation Coordinator, said “My hope is that Walk to School Day will be an ‘eye-opener’ for students and parents so they can see for themselves the benefits of walking and cycling, and say, ‘Hey, I can do this!’”
Walk to School Day Event Features:
Banner Sign-In: Students sign a large Walk Banner as a memento of the event.
Clif Z-BaR and Twisted Fruit: All participating students will be given these healthful snacks.
Ride & Stride: Students are driven to drop-off place and hold a Walk Parade to school.
Eco-Cycle Used Athletic Shoes Recycling: Collection of old athletic shoes (Oct 6-10).
Slogan: Saving Energy? I Walk/I Bike . . . I AM ENERGY !!
Thanks to our generous sponsors and all the volunteer Walk Coordinators: BVSD Transportation, City and County of Broomfield, Clif Bar Inc, DRCOG, EcoCycle, GO Boulder/city of Boulder, Live Well Colorado. Visit http://www.walktoschool-usa.org/ for more information.