Organized by the Partnership for a Walkable America, Walk to School Day in the United States began in 1997 as a one-day event aimed at building awareness for the need for walkable communities. In 2000, the event became international when the UK, Canada and the United States joined together for the first International Walk to School Day.
Princeville Elementary School students and staff members walked several laps around the Tarboro Town Common. Students from Stocks Elementary School walked from the ECPS bus garage to the school. They were joined by members of the Tarboro High School band and the Tarboro Police Department.
“It was fun walking to school with the band. It was a great way to begin my school day,” said Stocks Elementary fifth-grade student Rakym Herring.
Students from Martin Millennium Academy met on the Tarboro Town Common to begin the 1-mile walk to school along with their families and various community members, including the Tarboro Police Department and members of the Tarboro High School football team.
At G.W. Bulluck Elementary School, students walked laps around the school’s track to celebrate the day’s event. Billie Odom, Instructional Coach, greeted students on the track and encouraged them to walk at least eight laps, which would equal a mile.
“We are so excited about the opportunity to encourage our students to lead healthy lifestyles while enjoying the beautiful environment we have on our school campus,” said Odom.
Other ECPS schools are also participating in Walk to School events, G.W. Carver Elementary, Coker-Wimberly Elementary, and Phillips Middle School.