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Last updated on Friday, September 30, 2016
(UNDATED) - 20th annual Walk to School Day is October 5
Participants will experience benefits of active transportation
The Indiana Safe Routes to School Partnership and Health by Design are encouraging schools and parents throughout the state to help students walk or bike to school every day, but especially on Oct. 5, which is the 20th annual International Walk to School Day.
"We hope the 20th annual event will increase interest in getting to school in ways other than vehicles," said Kim Irwin, who coordinates Health by Design and the Indiana Safe Routes to School Partnership. "But the truth is the number of children walking or biking to school is at an all-time low."
Only 13% of children walk or bike to school, compared to 50% in 1969. Despite evidence that walking and biking provide physical, social and academic benefits, as well as reduce neighborhood traffic congestion, household costs and auto emissions, the vast majority of students arrive at school in a vehicle.
"We are seeing increased interest in bringing back the tradition as education leaders, parents and school staff experience the benefits of physical activity for students, especially at the start of their day," added Irwin
Tips on how to organize a Walk to School Day event at a school or in a neighborhood are available at www.walkbiketoschool.org.
To learn which Indiana schools are participating, visit http://walkbiketoschool.org/go/whos-walking/2015/IN.
The Indiana Safe Routes to School Partnership works to increase the number of children safely walking and biking to school throughout the state by sharing information, resources, technical assistance, and ideas. It is a collaborative effort spearheaded by Health by Design and comprised of government, community, health and education organizations. For more information, visit www.healthbydesignonline.org.
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