A school bus in Youngstown wasn’t
driving on the road, rather, it was on the sidewalk.
Tuesday morning, the “walking bus” helped children navigate
their way to school and encouraged them to stay active. Led by a team of police
officers and city leaders, including Mayor John McNally, the walking bus took
students down the street, through crosswalks and other situations they will
encounter before they get to class. Organizers said kids that walk and bike to school are more
energized to start the school day.
“Research has shown that walking and biking helps students
focus more in school, which would improve their grades, and that is really what
we want — our students to succeed,” said Safe Routes to School Coordinator
Heather Bielik.
The walkers will meet every Tuesday and walk to school until
the end of the school year. The event is hosted by the Youngstown Neighborhood
Development Corporation, Youngstown City Schools and City Kids Care.
To read the full story from WKBN, click here.