August 12, 2008
Safe Routes to School Training Next Week
DENVER – Colorado Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program is sponsoring a training course that will provide participants with the knowledge and skills to develop an SRTS program for their own communities.
Towns and cities across the country are using SRTS programs to make it more safe and appealing for children to walk and bicycle to school. This course will focus on developing a program based on community needs and conditions, best practices and responsible use of resources. Participants will conclude the class by developing an action plan for their school.
The Safe Routes to School National Course for Colorado Connections for Healthy Schools is free. It will be held on:
Course size is limited and is designed for community leaders, school officials, law enforcement officers and parents, among others. Interested individuals should e-mail Susanna Spear at the Colorado Department of Education – Spear_s@cde.state.co.us by August 18.
The course includes a luncheon and discussion about healthy schools legislation. Presenters include the American Heart Association, the Colorado Children's Campaign and a panel of state legislators, including Sens. Suzanne Williams and Dan Gibbs and Reps. Debbie Benefield, Any Kerr and Cherylin Peniston.
Federal legislation has recognized the value of SRTS and is providing funding to create new programs.
Additional information about SRTS is available at: www.dot.state.co.us/bikeped/SafeRoutesToSchool.htm