Walk to School Day Promotes Healthy Living

Barrington students will join hundreds of others worldwide tomorrow during International Walk to School Day.

The event started 13 years ago as a day to bring people together and push the issue that communities need to become more pedestrian friendly.  Over the years it has grown to include schools from all 50 states and several countries worldwide. 

Barrington 220 School District is participating in the event this year.  Chief Communications Officer Jeff Arnett said walking to school helps to promote a healthy lifestyle.

"Our students walk for a number of reasons," he said.  "The greatest reason is to contribute to a healthy lifestyle.  Not only with students, but parents who will be walking with them," Arnett explained.  

Arnett said walking to school also promotes interaction between parent and child.

"It also encourages parents and students to experience school together.  Parents who walk with their children are more engaged in activities at school," he said.  

The Village of Barrington is actively working to make this community a safer place for pedestrians.  The village has received government funding through the Safe Routes to School program to build additional sidewalks around town.