Families bundle up for Winter Walk to School Day

DULUTH, Minn. — Duluth students of all ages were trudging through the snow this morning as a celebration of sorts.

Wednesday February 4th was the state’s “Winter Walk to School Day”.

The day promotes healthy exercise and making safe choices on the way to school.

But mainly, it’s about teaching students’ safe routes to school.

“The kids learn about safe routes. You know, waiting for green lights. If there’s crossing guards, they need to make sure that they’re waiting to be given the go ahead to walk across the street. And it’s all about safety and getting outside in the winter months.” Kelli Haapala, Parent.

What’s special about ‘Winter Walk to School Day’ is that it promotes learning to dress for the weather and navigating snowy or icy sidewalks.

“One thing that the community really needs to have that awareness of is clearing their sidewalks, making sure that students of all capabilities, are able to get to and from school utilizing the sidewalks and the infrastructure that the city provides.” Andrea Heil, Safe Routes to School Coordinator, Duluth Public Schools.

Minnesota is the only state so far that celebrates Winter Walk to School Day.

National Walk to School Day is in the fall and National Bike to School Day is coming up in May.