By Josh Bootsma
LANSING, Ill. (October 6, 2021) – The sidewalks of Lansing were full of school-goers Wednesday morning as students and families made their way to local schools on National Walk and Bike to School Day.
The event is in its 25th year nationally, and District 158 made a special effort to create safe and fun ways for young students to walk to school Wednesday morning.
“I think it’s really just about solidarity,” Dr. Nathan Schilling, Superintendent of District 158, said as he walked along Henry Street behind a group of students. “It’s about showing support and togetherness between the community, the students, the faculty, the staff, and everybody. It’s also about safety — for us to walk with the kids and see what they experience each day.”
Schilling said another aspect of the day is strengthening relationships with Lansing police, who were present throughout town to help escort students to school. Police Chief Al Phillips joined the couple dozen students and parents gathered at Henry and Roy Street at 8:30.
Coolidge Elementary School had three designated meeting spots where students could gather with school staff and walk to school at 8:30. Other D158 schools did the same, Schilling said.
It’s been four years since District 158 last facilitated National Walk to School Day, as poor weather and COVID-19 had foiled previous plans.
Once at Coolidge, students gathered around a police car for a group photo. Principal Pam Hodgson thanked the guests for coming, and directed the students to start their school day.
Photos of National Walk to School Day in Lansing
More information about National Walk and Bike to School Day is available at walkbiketoschool.org. Coolidge Elementary School is located at 17845 Henry Street in Lansing.
Related
- TF South COVID positivity rate lower than Lansing’s (October 5, 2021)
- New District 158 building serves as PPE distribution point for surrounding schools (September 25, 2021)
It’s good to see kids walking to school. I don’t know how society got to the point where parents have to drive the kids to schools all the time. walking is healthier.