Ditch the Car -- Time to Walk 'n' Roll

Step by step, more than 100 students, staff, parents and government officials showed their support Wednesday for the annual Walk 'n' Roll to School program taking place this week as they walked from Kolb Park to Murray Elementary.  

The "walking school bus" stretched across nearby streets and crosswalks as students smiled and cheered each other on. It was the biggest turnout the school has seen in five years.

One fourth-grader commented, "I live close to the school, so this way I'm not wasting gas."

Another fourth-grade student said she loved the walk: "Exercising helps with strong bones and walking to school is better for the environment."

The event kicked off International Walk to School Week, which focuses on reducing backups around schools during pick-up and drop-off times, improving air quality, boosting health and exercise and increasing safety around the school.

Government officials at the event included Assemblyman Tom Torlakson, Dublin Mayor Tim Sbranti, Vice Mayor Kasie Hildenbrand, Councilmember Don Biddle and Superintendent Stephen Hanke.

"It's great to see so many kids and parents walking safely to school together. This is wonderful because it builds good habits," said Sbranti, a Murray Elementary alumnus.

 Torlakson noted that it was a fun event that stressed kids are able to learn better when they're physically active. "This is great because with an activity like this you can help the environment while you're helping yourself." 

After the walk, students were invited to enjoy a snack in the cafeteria and attend an assembly outside.

Murray Elementary Principal Carrie Nerheim said she was pleased with the turnout, adding that the event serves as a reminder of why she loves Dublin. "We had such great community support with the walk this morning, it's really great to see."

Through October, students from participating elementary schools in each Dublin, Livermore, Pleasanton and San Ramon will track the number of times they "walk 'n' roll" to school to earn prizes. For more information about the program, click here.