From sfsaferoutestoschool.org:
What is Walk to School Day?
- A global event held in early October that gives children, parents, school staff and community members an opportunity to work together to make their communities safer and more pleasant for walking.
- A collective walk to school with a purpose – to promote health, safety, physical activity and concern for the environment.
- Walk to School Day is part of the “Encouragement” piece of the SRTS 5 E’s.
Why should your school participate?
- Your school drop off/pick up zone is unruly.
- You’re worried about pedestrian safety near your school.
- You’d like more physically active and alert students.
- Children are increasingly overweight. Approximately 25% of San Francisco children are overweight.
- Walking to school is a good way to exercise regularly and to help prevent obesity, heart disease, and some forms of cancer.
- Pedestrian injuries are the second leading cause of fatal injuries among 5-12 year olds in California.
- San Francisco has been ranked one of the most walkable cities in the U.S., with transit-rich neighborhoods and homes, schools, shops, and parks all in close proximity to each other.
