Students across all of Oregon participate in May’s Walk+Bike to School Challenge Month, a free competition between students of all ages to walk, bike, scoot, or skate to school. Students track their active transportation days on a scorecard, which they then turn in for prizes.

In honor of a great Walk + Bike Challenge Month we are excited to share some of the awesome stories we heard from schools throughout the city. Ranging from first time participants to classes with 99% participation, we thought this would be the best way to kick off a fun and healthy summer. 

James John: The 99%
A class at James John was awarded the "Golden Sneaker" for the week with 99% participation! Their teacher supported the kids by walking a few extra blocks each day.

Hayhurst Student Bikes to School For the First Time and Loves It
The first thing this rider said to her mom when she arrived at school on her own bicycle was, "I want to ride to school again!" She had just ridden two miles on a hilly route to Hayhurst Elementary in SW Portland and couldn't have been more proud of herself.  After her inaugural ride for Hayhurst's Earth Day celebration, she and her mother planned to ride once a week until the end of the school year. She really earned her tattoo!

Faubion Walk + Bike Week:  Visits from the Bike Fairy! 
Parent coordinator, Carol, dressed up as the Bike Fairy each day of Faubion's challenge week to remind students to participate. She also handmade raffle prizes like bike "bling"  and handy Faubion tote bags. 

Llewellyn "Park + Walk" a Huge Success
Every Friday during Walk + Bike Challenge Month, Llewellyn parents offered free coffee (donated from a local shop in Sellwood) as an incentive for families to park their cars in a parking lot two blocks from school and walk the rest of the way. Parents enjoyed free coffee and a chance to stop and chat.

The last Friday of May the parking lot was FULL! Not only was it a great community builder, but they improved safety for walkers and bikers along the narrow street to Llewellyn.  (Photo from Llewellyn Facebook page.)

Emerson's W + B Display a Hit!
Emerson parent coordinator, Amy, asked students what they liked best about walking or biking to school, then posted the responses with photos of each student. It was a great and fun way to acknowledge students' participation!  Check out the responses: