Active School Travel (AST) is the use of any form of human-powered travel, such as walking or wheeling (cycling, scootering, rollerblading, skateboarding) to get to and from school. Within this definition, riding the school bus is also considered a sustainable form of transportation.
AST supports improved visibility within school zones, reduces the number of vehicles entering school zones, and enhances safety and connectivity within communities. While we understand that walking to school is not always possible we encourage you to try and incorporate it at least once a week in your routine or consider parking a few blocks away and walking the rest of the way!
AST has many known benefits. These include the following:
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improves physical and mental health
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reduces air pollution
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reduces traffic congestion on site and in the community improving safety
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promotes social development
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increases academic performance by preparing students to learn
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builds lifelong habits of active and independent mobility
This week is the Active School Travel Safety Campaign. School zone safety is everyone’s responsibility. If you choose to drive your child to school ensure you are following the rules of the road and increase your awareness especially within the school zone. If you walk your child or your child walks alone ensure to periodically review safe walking/cycling tips with your child.
Thank you for your partnership in helping us ensure a safe school arrival and departure for our students, staff and families.