Central Florida takes part in International Walk to School Day

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Thousands of students, parents and teachers hit the sidewalks across Central Florida on Wednesday as they took part in International Walk to School Day.

Since 1997, the annual event has aimed to promote an active lifestyle while also raising awareness for pedestrian safety.

"Especially for the young students. When they get out with their families, they can learn the healthy pedestrian rules of the road," Orange County School Board member Nancy Robbinson said.

In Orange County alone, more than 60 schools held events to encourage students to walk or bike to school.

For many this year, there were some obstacles along the way, as debris piles from Hurricane Irma still litters walkways.

"That is something the students are all going to have to look out for, because some of the piles are on the sidewalk. Some are in the street, and you never know what's in those piles," Robbinson said.

Parents at Maitland Middle School said the debris piles can also serve as another opportunity to promote safety.

Setting an example herself, Amy Yohe highlighted the importance of showing children how to walk to school safely, while encouraging others to do the same.

"It is safe, and the more we have walkers and bikers out there, the safer it will be.  So, we're hoping to promote that it's a good way to get to school," Yohe said.


About the Author:

Mark Lehman became a News 6 reporter in July 2014, but he's been a Central Florida journalist and part of the News 6 team for much longer. While most people are fast asleep in their bed, Mark starts his day overnight by searching for news on the streets of Central Florida.

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