In this blog post we are highlighting Shelby, Montana’s active WSB program! Ever since 2011, the City of Shelby’s Safe Routes to School Program Coordinator has been helping lead kids not only to school, but to an active and healthy lifestyle. Shelby’s WSB program takes place at Shelby Elementary School, where about 30-40 walkers and cyclists participate and around 12 volunteers help lead the participants to their destination in a safe, and FUN way!
Check out Shelby’s Walking School Bus program details:
How frequently throughout the school year does your WSB meet, and how did you decide on that? — We offer a walking school bus twice weekly in Sept./Oct. and April/May.
What inspired you to start or participate in a WSB? — We learned of the SRTS Program through MSU Nutrition and Physical Activity Program and conducted a workshop with Mark Fenton.
Do you have any ways you engage kids to participate in the WSB more frequently, such as awards for kids who walk the most miles? — We offer small prizes randomly for participants and end-of-the-year prizes which include swimming pool passes and Shelby Coyote apparel.
Have you faced any challenges in your WSB program, such as parents fearing for their child's safety and not allowing them to participate? How did you, or how are you currently, working through that challenge — The biggest challenge is getting families to participate. We continue to encourage participation.
Do you have an inspiring story that shows how powerful a WSB can be for youth? — Some of our student participants have said how great those few minutes are in the morning walking to school. They feel better prepared to start their school day!
What other special facts would you like to share about your WSB program? — We have a great partnership with our Jr/Sr High School student athletes who partner to walk with our kids in September and October and the SHS National Honor Society and Shelby Pep Band who help with Walk to School Day offering treats for the kids and playing music on the playground as the kids arrive at school that morning.
What an exciting way Shleby has been able to bring in different age groups, all while encouraging universal participation in a healthier, active lifestyle and clean transportation! We are so happy to share Shelby’s success story, and encourage you to reach out to Lorette Carter at shbcdc@3rivers.net to get more information on Shelby, MT’s WSB program, and how to participate.