On Wednesday, October 5th, millions of students worldwide will participate in International Walk to School Day: a fun walk to celebrate a healthy, cleaner, and community-oriented way to get to school.

This year in Chester County, local police departments, Safe Kids Chester County, the Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC), the Chester County District Attorney, and the Chester County Health Department are partnering with schools to help celebrate International Walk to School Day.

“International Walk to School Day is a great opportunity to teach children the proper rules of the road and practice healthy habits,” said Chester County District Attorney Tom Hogan.

“I walked to school every day as a kid, rain or shine, and this event lets me pretend that I am a kid again. The District Attorney’s Office looks forward to joining the students for this fun and educational event every year.”

“The Transportation Management Association of Chester County has been partnering with schools in Chester County to WTSD for the past three years.” Said Executive Director of TMACC, P. Timothy Phelps. “We’re excited to continue to show students and parents that Walking to School can be a safe and fun alternative.”

Last year, St. Patrick’s School in Malvern and West Vincent Elementary School had over 700 students walk to school and they’re hoping more schools will decide to promote the benefits of walking to their students.

“Walking to school does not have to occur just one day a year.” stated Phelps, “Each day can be walk to school day if your municipality provides accessible and safe routes to school.”

If your school is interesting in participating in Walk to School Day next year or would like to learn more about walking to school, please contact TMACC at 610-993-0911 or visit TMACC’s website at www.tmacc.org.