Walk the Walk: Encouraging the Use of Walking School Buses as a Path to a Healthier Community and Environment

Jennifer Li, NACCHO; Kathy Kraft, Upper Chesapeake Health; Stan Miller, MD

Somerset County Department of Health, Somerville, NJ

As part of a 9-month research study through the Johns Hopkins University Mid-Atlantic Health Leadership Institute, a team of public health professionals explored the resources available on the topic of initiating, implementing and sustaining a Walking School Bus (WSB) program.  Through our research, we compiled factual information that would be needed to assist and encourage local community decision makers and leaders to adopt WSB practices by addressing possible obstacles and also, unforeseen opportunities.  We also gathered practical, insightful data and lessons learned from the field, and emphasize the need to develop community partnerships as part of achieving a successful WSB program.
Walking School Buses are not only important to public health in terms of addressing obesity and physical inactivity among school aged children but also to other partners such as environmental groups, urban planners, transportation coordinators, law enforcement, policy makers, elected officials and of course, schools.  In essence, these partners have also been active champions for Walking School Buses since they deal with respective areas of concern such as reducing traffic congestion and emission of pollutants around schools, pedestrian safety, healthier communities through urban design and infrastructure, safer neighborhoods that are desirable to live in and a more active and involved school community.
Our poster presentation will assist decision makers from all sectors as to whether a WSB program is a feasible and appropriate option for their community to address the
issues of obesity, transportation, safety, air pollution and overall, encourage the use of WSBs to define and create a livable, sustainable and healthy community.