October 2, 2019: Walk to School Day

WHEREAS, on October 2, 2019, thousands of students across Michigan will walk to school in conjunction with a nationwide celebration of walking, health, and active modes of transportation; and,

 

WHEREAS, during the month of October and throughout the year, many organizations encourage students and citizens to choose walking as a mode of transportation; and,

 

WHEREAS, in collaboration with these organizations, schools throughout Michigan champion students to participate in lifelong physical activity, while also providing transportation safety education; and,

 

WHEREAS, walking to school, work, and for leisure has an overall impact on health, wellness, and the environment, and, in general, students are healthier and more academically attentive, traffic is less congested, and busing costs are reduced in schools that continually participate in Safe Routes to School programs; and,

 

WHEREAS, reducing energy waste saves U.S. consumers billions of dollars on their utility bills annually; and,

 

WHEREAS, Walk to School Day is supported by the Michigan Department of Transportation, the Michigan Fitness Foundation, the Michigan Department of Education, and the National Center for Safe Routes to School;

 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2, 2019, as Walk to School Day in Michigan and encourage everyone to consider the safety and health of children today and every day.