MnDOT encourages schools, communities to join Bike to School Day May 7

ST. PAUL, Minn. — Thousands of Minnesota students are gearing up to for Bike to School Day on Wednesday, May 7, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation encourages more schools to get involved.

More than 160 Minnesota schools have signed up to participate. Bike to School Day is a healthy way to promote safe biking and walking activities in an academic setting. MnDOT and Minnesota Safe Routes to School sponsor the event each year.

Students and families can participate in a variety of ways. They can bike or walk to school directly from home, join a “walking school bus” or a “bike train” a few blocks from school, or have their parents drop them off a few blocks away so they can get the experience of pedaling to school with their friends. Many schools also offer bike safety education events throughout the school day like bike rodeos or taking a field trip by bike.

Studies have shown that physical activity can lead to improved physical health, mental health and academic performance in children.

“Bike to School Day is a fun way for kids to learn about bicycle safety and explore their community on two wheels,” said Kelly Corbin, MnDOT Safe Routes to School coordinator. “The turnout at the events also reminds us how important it is to make it easier for kids to be able to bike everywhere they want or need to go.”

Schools can still register events. Additional materials are available online to support year-round walking and biking activities. More information is available at mndot.gov/saferoutes.

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