Getting Started
Walk to School events can be as simple as a few kids and parents meeting to walk to school or very elaborate celebrations. Event logistics range from a central walking location to people walking from their homes. Below are simple steps for getting organized. See “Extra help” for more detailed information. Also be sure to check out Resources.
1. Get partners
Principal, Police, Parents:
Successful events have the support and participation of the principal, police and parents. Ask them to be partners. The school principal can give the school's commitment, while the local police department is a valuable resource and will ensure that safety is a priority. Parents add energy and enthusiasm and make the walk work.
Public Officials:
Schools have gotten sidewalks fixed and new trails built in record time because of partnerships with public officials and other community leaders, such as mayors and city council members. Walk to School celebrations give leaders the opportunity to publicly support health, environment and safety initiatives, so consider finding ways to involve them.
Extra help
- How to involve police
- How to involve public officials
- Materials to help you gain support:
2. Plan
Work with partners to plan the celebration. Together, decide what type of event fits your school and community. Then choose a focus for the walk, such as promoting physical activity or pedestrian safety, and determine whether the event will last one day or a week. Local businesses may be willing to sponsor the walk by providing refreshments or small gifts for participants.
3. Register your event
Registering an event makes it known to media, the community and other participants. Registered communities will also get access to additional materials.
Extra help
- www.iwalktoschool.org for information on international happenings
4. Promote it
Tell students, parents and others how to participate. Making announcements at school, publishing school newsletter articles and sending flyers home are just a few ways to get the word out. Posting signs along the route a few days ahead will help the community know. Business sponsors may want to hang signs in their stores.
Media coverage of the event brings visibility to the event’s purpose and any changes that need to be made to make it safer for kids to walk and bike to school. When media cover your event, they help spread the word of the great health, safety, environmental and social benefits of more children walking to school every day. Colorful signs held by smiling, walking children and adults creates a perfect photo opportunity.
