Oregon leads the nation in Walk & Roll to School Day

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Oregon Leads the nation in Walk & Roll to school day:

Safe Routes to school has something to CELEBRATE!

SRTS Walk & Roll to School Day

Dec. 5, 2024

News media contact: Mindy McCartt, 503-507-6045

SALEM — Oregon has claimed the top spot in the nation for participation in International Walk & Roll to School Day, with over 200 public K-8 schools across the state joining the annual event. This remarkable achievement makes Oregon the #1 state for school registrations, highlighting the commitment of students, families, and communities to safe, active, and healthy travel to school.

International Walk & Roll to School Day, celebrated every October since 1997, encourages students worldwide to walk, bike, or roll to school.  In Oregon, the event aligns with Pedestrian Safety Month and is supported by our Safe Routes to School Program.

“The enthusiasm for Walk & Roll to School Day across Oregon reflects our shared dedication to building safer, more connected communities,” said Heidi Manlove, Safe Routes to School Program Manager. “We’re thrilled to see so many schools embrace this day and encourage students to choose active travel options.”

Supporting Schools and Communities

The SRTS Program helps schools make participation easy by offering free resources, including stickers, posters, and prizes. Schools can also access digital toolkits with materials in English and Spanish to promote Walk & Roll events.

Walk & Roll to School Day provides many benefits, including:

  • Health and Safety: Students experience the joy of active travel while learning about pedestrian and cyclist safety.
  • Environmental Impact: Walking and biking reduce short car trips, cutting oil consumption and carbon dioxide emissions.
  • Community Spirit: Events foster a sense of belonging, school pride, and collaboration among students, families, and neighborhoods.

“We hope families discover how easy and enjoyable it can be to walk or bike to school,” said Mindy McCartt, Public Information Officer. “For many, it’s a chance to embrace a healthier lifestyle while helping create a cleaner, more sustainable environment.”

For more information about Oregon’s participation in International Walk & Roll to School Day, visit ODOT SRTS Website.

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