Mayor Jane Castor and Superintendent Van Ayres will join Sidewalk Stompers in celebrating National Walk to School Day on October 8 at Roosevelt Elementary School. The event highlights the 10th year of Sidewalk Stompers’ walking program at Roosevelt, which is also marking its 100th anniversary.
“National Walk to School Day recognizes the importance of giving children safe and healthy routes to school,” said Emily Hinsdale, President of Sidewalk Stompers. “Keeping kids active and engaged in their community improves not just their own health, but the health of our whole region.”
Sidewalk Stompers began as a group of parents at Roosevelt Elementary during the 2015-16 school year who organized walk and bike events for students. After participation doubled in its first year, the initiative expanded into a nonprofit organization that now supports similar programs at other schools. As a result of these efforts, new crosswalks, stop signs, crossing guards, and signage have been installed at Roosevelt. The school reports that 250-300 students take part in weekly Walk to School Wednesdays.
In Hillsborough County, 35 district schools are registered to participate in National Walk to School Day this year.
The engineering firm AtkinsRealis is sponsoring this year’s events.
Founded in 2018, Sidewalk Stompers is an advocacy nonprofit focused on student health, mental wellness, community connections, and road safety. The organization promotes active transportation among young people with the goal of fostering healthier lifestyles and stronger community ties.
Other participating schools across Hillsborough County are holding events from October 1 through October 15 at various locations including Adum K-8, Burns Middle, Carrollwood K-8, Chiles Elementary, Citrus Park Elementary, Collins PK-8, Dorothy York Innovation Academy, Egypt Lake Elementary, Eisenhower Middle, Fishhawk Creek Elementary, Lewis Elementary, Lincoln Elementary, Mann Middle, Potter Elementary, Pride Elementary (with full lists available from organizers).
For more information about Sidewalk Stompers or upcoming events visit www.sidewalkstompers.org or connect via social media: Facebook (Sidewalk Stompers), Instagram (sidewalk_stompers), or X (Sidewalk_Stomp).
