Danbury students take Walking School Bus to Park Avenue

Dozens of Danbury school children and their families, joined by school officials and administrators, walked to school Wednesday, as part of the “Walking School Bus” that led children from City Hall to Park Avenue School, picking up students along their way.

The event is in support of today’s National Bike to School Day supported by the U.S. Department of Transportation. Danbury’s event was co-sponsored by the Coalition for Healthy Kids (CHK), Danbury Public Schools (DPS) and the YMCA. Danbury was one of 22 cities and towns in Connecticut celebrating today with walking school buses or biking to school.

“Today was an excellent opportunity for students to start their day in a positive way that allows for exercise and the opportunity to spend active time together and with their families,” said Superintendent Dr. Sal Pascarella. “We hope that students will continue walking to school as a healthy beginning to their school day.”

Walking to school in groups promotes the idea that walking to school is safe and fun; it also encourages physical activity and school attendance. The route was mapped out prior to the walk and Park Avenue School principal David Krafick led the way. Danbury Police provided extra officers to man the route.

All of the sponsoring community partners hope that the Walking School Bus is more than just a one-day event. They would like to see the Walking School Bus become part of the regular routine in the Park Avenue Neighborhood and at other schools in Danbury where walking is a safe form of transportation.

To learn more about the Walking School Bus concept, go to walkbiketoschool.org or visit the National Safe Routes to School website at saferoutesinfo.org.