Alcott Principal Naomi Krakow and Thoreau Principal Justin Sparks accepted Gold-Level Partner Awards from the Massachusetts Safe Routes to School Program during a ceremony at the State House on June 1. (Photo Courtesy Concord Public Schools)
CONCORD — Two Concord elementary schools were recently recognized for their efforts to get kids moving.
Alcott Elementary School and Thoreau Elementary School both received Gold-Level Partner Awards from the Massachusetts Safe Routes to School Program, which honors schools that actively encourage students and families to walk, bike and roll to school safely.
Representatives from both schools were invited to the State House on June 1 to accept the awards.
The Gold-Level designation represents an improvement over the schools’ recognition in the previous year and continued growth of Safe Routes to School initiatives throughout the Concord Public Schools community.
Safe Routes to School is a statewide program that works with schools and communities to create safer conditions for students to walk, bike and roll to school while promoting healthy lifestyles, increasing physical activity, reducing traffic congestion and improving safety around schools.
Over the years, Concord Public Schools has built a strong partnership with the program through a variety of initiatives, including pedestrian and bicycle safety education, grants for crossing signs and safety improvements, applications for bicycle rack grants, arrival and dismissal audits, bicycle rodeos, safety-themed yard sign contests, Walk, Bike, and Roll to School events, and ongoing collaboration with community partners.
“Safe Routes to School has become an important part of our school culture,” said Alcott Principal Naomi Krakow. “The Walk, Bike and Roll to School Days provide students with an opportunity to be active while making their trip to school more engaging and enjoyable. We are proud of the commitment our school community has shown to these programs.”
“Our students, families and staff bring such enthusiasm to our Safe Routes to School activities throughout the year,” said Thoreau Principal Justin Sparks. “Whether they’re walking, biking or rolling to school, our students are building healthy habits and learning important safety skills alongside their classmates and community members. We are grateful to everyone who helps make these efforts successful.”
One of the most visible and successful initiatives has been the district’s Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Days, which are held three times each year and regularly draw participation from more than 60 students, family members, and staff members. The events encourage active transportation and help bring the school community together in a fun way.
“We are proud to see both Alcott and Thoreau recognized for their commitment to creating safe and healthy opportunities for students to travel to and from school,” said Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter. “These awards represent the collective efforts of our staff, students, families, volunteers and community partners who continue to support these initiatives.”
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The district’s Walk, Bike, and Roll to School Days are held three times each year and regularly draw strong participation from students, family members and staff members. (Photo Courtesy Concord Public Schools)