Lake Elsinore, Wildomar Students Encouraged To Take Part In 'International Walk To School Day'

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Elementary and middle school students throughout Riverside County will forgo riding to school on Wednesday in recognition of "International Walk to School Day" -- part of an effort to promote youth exercise and pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods.

Thousands of youths from more than 80 schools are expected to take part in the annual event, during which parents and community-based volunteers form "walking school buses" to shepherd children to their campuses, according to the Riverside University Health System, one of the agencies organizing the outing.

"This is one of the most exciting days of the year for us," said Marsie Gutierrez, spokeswoman for the Riverside County Safe Routes to School program. "We love seeing students and their families step outside, enjoy the fresh air and take big steps towards their best health."

According to Gutierrez, grade schools in the Coachella Valley, the San Gorgonio Pass and the western county regions have all arranged mass walks.

In some locations, public safety personnel will provide escorts, and mascots, like the Lake Elsinore Storm's "Thunder," will offer sidewalk entertainment. Elected officials are also expected to take part.

According to organizers, walking programs promote reduced childhood obesity and underscore the importance of pedestrian access and safety.

More information is available at www.rivcoips.org .

— By City News Service / Patch file photo by Renee Schiavone