International Walk and Bike to School Day

City of Glendale Transportation Education with the City of Glendale Schools participated in the annual “International Walk and Bike to School Day.” 

A convergence of issues ranging from childhood obesity to environmental pollution to rising fuel prices are pushing families to rethink how they travel, including the daily trip to school. Although walking and bicycling to school happens throughout the school year, this year’s official Walk to School celebration took place on Wednesday, October 3.

Walking to school gives quality time together while enjoying the fresh air outdoors and appreciating the cooling of the temperature – in addition to the benefit of daily exercise. While many “Walk to School” events center on promoting physical activity, safety and environmental stewardship, rising fuel prices are playing a role on school trips, too. For some families, this is an opportunity to give walking and bicycling to school a try.

The Partnership for a Walkable America sponsored the first “National Walk Our Children to School Day”in Chicago in 1997, modeled after the United Kingdom’s walk to school events. In the U.S., Walk to School grows in numbers and relevance each year. In 2010, all 50 states held a Walk to School event, for an estimated total of over 3550 schools. Events registered at www.walktoschool.org increased by 35 percent compared to 2006.

Whatever the motivation, Walk to School boils down to families and community. Walking to school also provides a chance to stay connected with friends and neighbors to visit along the way, keeping parents involved in the community. For more details visit www.walktoschool.org.

This year our highlighted school was Copper Creek Elementary with Brian Fineberg, Principal, and his staff, students and parents.  The Coyote’s Howler, McGruff, Mountain Ridge mascots, and dancers helped kick off the day.

• For photos of this year’s event at Copper Creek, click here.