More than 6,000 ACPS students took part in National Walk To School Day on Wednesday.
The annual event, organized in Alexandria in partnership with our Safe Routes to School team, proved a huge success across our division in all K-8 schools.
Bus drivers joined in the fun by dropping riders a few blocks from school so those children could walk the rest of the way.
All who took part received a pair of sunglasses.
Goal 5 of the ACPS 2020 Strategic Plan focuses on student health and wellness. By collaborating with the City of Alexandria, we promote walking and bicycling to class to ensure that routes are safe and accessible.
It is hoped that the initiative will encourage students to develop a sense of autonomy and healthy, life-long habits.
Jennifer Wiser, Safe Routes to School Coordinator for ACPS, said there was a great enthusiasm on the streets during Wednesday’s event.
We are thrilled to report that ACPS had its largest participation in National Walk to School Day ever with all K-8 schools participating and over 6,000 students walking or biking to school! Not only did students have an opportunity to be outside and active before the start of their school day, but they had a chance to learn about pedestrian safety, to spend time with neighbors and friends, and to have FUN! This was truly a collaborative effort with Alexandria Police and Sheriff’s Departments, bus drivers, crossing guards, parents, students, community volunteers, school administrators, nurses, and teachers all doing their part to make the day educational, safe, and enjoyable for all.”