Are you ready for Walk to School?

Children in grades K-6 are invited to participate again this year in an even bigger and better walk to school program!

How much bigger and better, you ask? How about expanding opportunities for bus riders to walk from the high school to Klager and Riverside schools, to twice a week? How about more and bigger prizes for dedicated walkers? How about perfect attendance awards? All of this and more is possible, and organizers are eager to welcome more enthusiastic students to take the challenge.

Of course, the Walk to School team is counting on YOU to help continue this program that focuses on fitness and fun-- for kids and adults alike! More volunteers will keep the Walk to School program moving along. To add your name to the volunteer roster, contact Kathy O'Mara at 734.428.8321 xt. 1316, or komara@mcs.k12.mi.us. She will help you find the time that works best for your schedule.

Walking through town will take place on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with meeting spots at Wurster Park in front of the Gazebo (7:30 am), and on the shared use trail at Chi-Bro Park (7:45 am). Volunteers walk from each location with the kids to assure their safety, as rules of the road (and sidewalk!) are observed. Bus riders can get off in the bus circle at the high school on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and will be met by volunteers who will accompany them to either Klager or Riverside.

For the 2018-19 school year, there were two walkers with perfect attendance: a total of 96 school days of walking--rain and shine; wind, sleet and snow. A few others came very close to attaining this goal. This year, we'd love to have even more walkers who reach those heights.

Have you resolved to get in shape this year? Do you need a boost to get your day started off on the right foot? Do you enjoy spending time with kids? Don't miss the chance to participate in this fun and worthwhile program! Walk to School days will begin the second week of school--September 9, 11, and 13 for in-town walks and September 10 and 12 for those who ride the bus. Contact Mrs. O'Mara to volunteer to help!

And we are looking ahead to celebrating National Walk to School Day on Wednesday, October 2! More on that as the date gets closer.

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by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.