(click the flyer above to download it in a pdf format)

Why A Walking School Bus Day?

Memphis must continue efforts to reverse the trend of high obesity rates and diabetes in our community.

To successfully combat this trend, our efforts must be galvanized to bring about overall community focus and change. As adults we are not merely parents of obese children, but individuals who must battle this epidemic ourselves. It is for this reason that the “Walking School Bus Day” is of vital importance.

Fewer children walk to school than did so in past generations.

In 1969, 42% of students walked or bicycled to school.

As age or grade level increases, physical activity drastically declines.

Today, only 16% between ages 5 and 15 walk or bike to school.

This day will symbolize the combined efforts of adults and youths to increase physical activity.

When

The event will be held in conjunction and recognition of National Children’s Health Month and International Walk Day. Wednesday October 7, 2009, our community will begin to take the reigns of leading Memphis to better health.

How

Through radio, television, print media, and direct community solicitation we are encouraging all adults throughout Memphis and surrounding areas to walk a child to school. As a team leader with MCS, Healthy Choices Week Healthy Weight Day, Healthy Kids & Teens will lead the effort along with Healthy Memphis Common Table, Strong Me, Game Day Baseball, Campbell Clinic, Shelby County Schools, YMCA, and other community team members.

How Can I Be Involved?

Walk with a child to school.

Serve as a walking school bus driver and walk several students to school.

Encourage your family, friends and neighbors to walk on Wednesday October 7th.

As our most precious resources, our children deserve a future free from the health ravages of obesity. The Walking School Bus Day will bring our community a step closer to making this a reality today and for tomorrow. This event also goes hand and hand with Superintendent Cash’s initiative to launch an Obesity Awareness/Prevention and Healthy Choices Campaign.