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ST. PAUL, Minn. – More than 110 Minnesota schools and thousands of students are expected to participate in the 31st annual Walk to School Day on Wednesday, Oct. 7, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.
This Minnesota Safe Routes to School-sponsored event encourages students and parents to try out new, healthy habits that increase physical activity. Walking to school can also build stronger connections between families, schools and communities. Minnesota law requires that all public-school students must learn how to walk and bike safely at the start of the school year.
“Walk to School Day is a great chance for Minnesota students to enjoy the crisp fall air, kick through leaves, splash in puddles, and connect with friends and family on their way to school,” said Kelly Corbin, MnDOT Safe Routes to School coordinator. “A few extra minutes outside supports kids’ physical health, boosts their mental wellbeing, and brings a little fun to the morning routine. And as more students are walking, we remind drivers across Minnesota to slow down, stay alert, and watch for kids near schools and intersections.”
Students don’t need to live near their school to take part in Walk to School Day. Participating schools can organize a bus or vehicle drop-off location within half a mile of the school for students who wish to walk the rest of the way. Volunteers can help supervise the walk and assist with crossing streets.
Minnesota continues to stand out as a national leader in school safety. In the recently released 2026 Safe Routes to School State Report Card, Minnesota earned a top-tier ranking and placed fourth nationwide as part of an evaluation of how states support walking, bicycling, rolling, and active communities through policy, funding, and implementation.
Minnesota Safe Routes to School is a MnDOT program that provides resources and grants to advance SRTS programs through planning, projects and support. Visit our website for more details and contact information.
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www.mndot.gov
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