Wednesday is International Walk to School Day

Jefferson Elementary School in West Caldwell is one of thousands of schools around the world participating Wednesday in International Walk to School Day, an effort designed to encourage students to walk, or bike, to school.

The benefits of leaving the car at home are many, according to WalkBiketoSchool.org. Not only do students learn healthy habits, the organization says, walking also leads to less traffic congestion, safer streets and an increased sense of community.

International Walk to School Day is the kick off to Jefferson’s Walking Wednesdays, a program run by the kindergarten through fifth grade school each fall and spring.

The school's nurse, Maryann Rivera, keeps a chart of participating students and the class with the highest percentage of walkers to or from school over a six-week period will receive a special recognition from the school.  

Wednesday is also Crossing Guard Appreciation Day. So remember to thank the crossing guard on your corner as you are walking, or riding your bike, to school.