Blue Ridge second grader Isaac Hernandez selects a book bag clip from ESOL teacher Kimberly Rhyne in recognition of his walking to school as his mom Conception Barrientos look on.
Students at Blue Ridge School got their blood pumping early when they walked to school for International Walk to School Day sponsored by National Safe Routes to Schools. Not only were they doing something healthy for their bodies, but they also were helping the environment by not taking a car. Blue Ridge estimated that 25% more students walked to school for the event than on a regular morning.
Each of the approximately 250 students who walked was greeted by Blue Ridge teachers handing out small tokens of appreciation to those participating in the event. Assistant Principal Alan Martineaux says the school has worked in partnership with Georgia Safe Routes to Schools over the last few years on several projects.
“When the district had to reduce our bus services several years ago, Georgia Safe Routes to School representatives worked with us on performing walking audits around our school,” said Martineaux. “They also provided pedestrian safety training for our teachers to share with our students. We really encourage our students and families to walk to school because it encourages a healthy lifestyle.”
Georgia Safe Routes to School is a part of the National Center for Safe Routes to School.
Blue Ridge School students Lyreik Anderson, first grade, and Tori Clark, second grade, get their incentive for walking to school with their aunt Ashia McCowan from special education teacher Matthew Mathis.
Approximately 250 Blue Ridge students walked to school with their families to celebrate International Walk to School Day.
