Monsignor J S Smith , Calgary

Walking School Bus

With a school of approximately 800 students, both elementary and junior high, Monsignor JS Smith, students participate in a Walking School Bus program. Here are a few question, tips and even challenges they have faced:

How did Monsignor JS Smith become interested in the Walking School Bus?

Danielle McCurrie, a teacher at the school, picked up an information package from Shape at a teacher's  convention in 2007. While reading further into the program she began to develop a program that would suit the student and schools needs.

What does this program consist of?

The Walking School Bus runs from September to October and then resumes again from April through June, Wednesdays through Fridays. There is only one designated route with 6 stops in the Douglasdale Community.

Who is involved (students/parents/staff etc) ?

 A consistent group of 12 kids will walk and participate from start to finish in the route, however many parents will stop and allow their children to get out of the vehicles if they see other kids walking to school. There is one senior/leader student (ie. Leadership class) who ensures the safety of the children while on route. Parent volunteer, Colleen Magee, has taken on a lot of responsibility and support Danielle in her goal to see this program grow.

How important for parents to be involved?

It is absolutely crucial for parents to be aware of child's daily activity and to support. Before the Walking School Bus program began, a survey was sent out and the interest level of parents for this type of program was overwhelming. However the level of interest does not always reflect the level of participation. Having a group of parents (here at Monsignor JS Smith there are 7 parents who help out) is essential.

How do you promote the Walking School Bus?

A big draw is the mascot, kids love the mascot when we are able to have it at our school. Other great ideas are to include reminders in home newsletters, have leadership classes make and post WSB posters up. Also every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, we have set up a meeting place for those who have walked to school. This is a great time for parents who have walked to get to know each other! 

What have been your challenges?

Currently we only have one route and have hopes of setting out more. However the volunteers are needed for the development of this. The more routes we have, the more quarters of the schools community is covered. In the past we have had attempted to set out more than one, but feel that the involvement level could have been greater. Also, living in Alberta, with our long winters is always a challenge. It is great however that Shape involves us in the Winter Walk Day in February.

Do you have any advice for those schools wanting to start a WBS program?

Don't give up! Even though the numbers may not reflect the interest - Keep Going! Eventually the spirit of walking and active lifestyle will catch on. Form a parent support/volunteer group that is willing to set out more than one route and walk with students.