Safe Routes to School
Thirty years ago, more than 66 percent of all children walked to school. Walking or biking to school gives children a sense of freedom and responsibility, allows them to enjoy the fresh air, and provides opportunities to get to know their neighborhood while arriving at school alert, refreshed, and ready to start their day. Yet most American children are denied this experience; in fact, only 13 percent of American children walk or bike to school.
Recent research indicates that 20 to 25 percent of morning traffic is due to parents driving their children to school. As a result, traffic congestion has increased around schools, prompting even more parents to drive their children to school. The health consequences to our children and to the well being of the community are extensive.
A successful Safe Routes to School (SR2S) program integrates health, fitness, traffic relief, environmental awareness, and safety under one program. It is an opportunity to work closely with your school, your community, and your local government to create a healthy lifestyle for children and a safer, cleaner environment for everyone.
International Walk to School Day is October 2nd every year. To maximize Walk to School Day participation, a centralized headquarters facilitates coordination of events and provides materials and resources to schools and communities wishing to participate.
For more information about Safe Routes to School, contact Cecile Murphy at (916) 552-9895 or by e-mail: Cecile.Murphy@cdph.ca.gov
Our goal is to get more children traveling safely to school on foot or bike more often.