By Amy Wallot
amy.wallot@education.ky.gov

The morning of May 7was about 70 degrees, sunny and an absolutely gorgeous day to walk to school for National Bike to School Day. Most of the students I saw at Northside Elementary School (Woodford County) had chosen to walk. But later in the week Southside Elementary was having a bike-only event.

The students who lived too far away to walk to school were dropped off at a set location a couple of blocks away from the school. Once a small group had gathered, a chaperone would follow them as they headed to the school. The students I talked with said they really enjoyed the walk and would do it again.

Melody Hamilton, physical education program manager for Woodford County Schools, said the district is taking Gov. Steve Beshear’s KY Health Now initiative to heart by encouraging students and their families to lead active, healthy lives to improve their overall wellness.

“Walking or riding your bike to school is healthier for you and a great way to get your blood flowing,” Hamilton said.

 

Third-grade student Elizabeth Raglin walks to school with her dad Darin Raglin during National Bike to School Day celebrated at Northside Elementary School (Woodford County). Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014

Third-grade student Elizabeth Raglin walks to school with her dad Darin Raglin during National Bike to School Day celebrated at Northside Elementary School (Woodford County).
Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014

Students walk to school on a beautiful morning. Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014

Students walk to school on a beautiful morning.
Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014

Fourth-grade student Weston Wright walked to school. Wright said he enjoyed it, but the part of the walk that was uphill was a little tough. Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014

Fourth-grade student Weston Wright walked to school. Wright said he enjoyed it, but the part of the walk that was uphill was a little tough.
Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014

Melody Hamilton, physical education program manager for Woodford County Schools, follows behind 5th-grade student Katelyn Hamilton and 3rd-grade student Kaylei Popp. Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014

Melody Hamilton, physical education program manager for Woodford County Schools, follows behind 5th-grade student Katelyn Hamilton and 3rd-grade student Kaylei Popp.
Photo by Amy Wallot, May 7, 2014