Bike and pedestrian education is in full swing! We have braved the cold temperatures so far with our bike safety classes and are looking forward to warmer weather this spring to practice our new skills. Our bike and pedestrian safety education programs are part of our Safe Routes to School Program, which works to reduce barriers to students walking and rolling to school by making walking and rolling safe, fun, and convenient for students. In our bike safety classes, 4th and 5th graders in the Bend La Pine School District learn tips and tricks to keep them safe while riding their bikes around town. In addition, students who are new to riding have the opportunity to learn to ride with the help of Commute Options staff, volunteers, and their teachers.
Our curriculum teaches the importance of being a predictable bike rider and how to communicate with other road users and follow the rules of the road. In addition, students learn how to properly fit their bike helmets, how to perform a pre-ride safety check, and how to ride safely in a group. If students are feeling confident at the end of the week (and we are lucky with the weather!), we get to enjoy a neighborhood bike ride where they can practice their new bike safety skills. We welcome volunteers – if anyone is interested in helping out with bike safety education this spring please contact Safe Routes to School Coordinator, Marika Tammaru at marika@commuteoptions.org.