Walk to School Day Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Most students at my school arrive by bus or car. Can we still participate?
A: YES! In situations where a majority of students are bused or driven, finding an alternative drop-off location for Walk to School Day participants is a great idea. For example, buses and private vehicles can stop a few blocks away from the school in a parking lot or other central staging area that has safe sidewalks or pathways connecting to the school. Students are greeted by adult volunteers who walk with the students the remaining way to school.
Alternative drop-off locations should be large enough to accommodate busses and should have sufficient parking so parents and community members can leave their vehicles and walk with students. Examples of alternative drop-off locations are shopping centers, grocery stores, community centers, parks, and places of worship. Be sure to get permission from the property owner in advance!
Recruit volunteers (e.g. police officers, grandparents, high school athletes and band members, parents, and community leaders) before Walk to School Day and provide them with directions to the alternative drop-off site.
Q: The October 5 date will not work for our school. Can we still participate?
A: YES! If October 5 does not work for your school, feel free to pick an alternate date; the entire month of October is International Walk to School Month.
Q: Can we hold a Walk to School Day event even if the routes around our school are unsafe?
A: YES! Students can still enjoy the benefits of a brisk walk before school without ever leaving the school campus. Students arrive by usual transportation mode and are greeted by adult volunteers. The group then walks the perimeter of the school property several times. This method is an effective way to bring community attention to the lack of safe routes for walking and bicycling to school. It is also a great way to involve students who must be bused or driven to school on Walk to School Day.
Q: How much does it cost to hold a Walk to School Day event?
A: Aside from volunteer time, many schools do not spend anything on Walk to School Day. If you want to offer snacks or prizes for participants, contact local businesses to see if they’d be willing to donate items or sponsor the event. Examples include grocery stores (for refreshments like apples, juice or water) sporting goods stores (for items like bike helmets, backpacks, or reflective gear) and restaurants or cafés (for coffee and tea for adult volunteers).
