Sandy Police cheer Bell View Elementary students on at Bike or Walk to School Day

Sidewalks near Bell View Elementary were more crowded on Oct. 5 as students took on the challenge to walk or bike to school as part of International Walk to School Day.

 “In the PTA, there is a commission called ‘Health and Safety,’ so the PTA is very concerned about encouraging both the safety of children and the health of children,” PTA President Amy Bryant said. “This is a way for them to walk and get that exercise that they need.”

Some students attending Bell View are being bused from Draper, so it took a little creativity to ensure that every student had an opportunity to participate.

“When they get here on the bus, they will be able to do a lap around the track and that will be their way of participating,” Bryant said prior to the event.

Students who were unable to walk or bike for other reasons were also given the option to lap the track. Bottled water and tokens for free kids meals to Applebee’s and Texas Roadhouse were handed out to all who took on the challenge.

The Sandy City Police Department even got involved by helping children cross the street at 9800 South 800 East. When they arrived at the school, the school’s officer, Officer Albrand, was there to congratulate them and stamp their hands.

“I think anything we can do to encourage safety, education and participation in the school is great,” Albrand said. “It makes for a fun day too.”

The children arrived with smiles on their faces and soaked in the compliments they were being given for a job well-done, even in the brisk temperatures which were somewhere in the 40s that day.

PTA organizers thought the event was a great success.

 “Walk or Bike to School Day is one way we can encourage the kids to stay healthy and fit instead of taking the bus or driving to school,” Bryant said