“I love getting everybody outside in the morning and walking and trying to make it fun for everybody,” said Nikki Greene, office secretary for the elementary school who also planned this event. She was talking about Cannon Falls Area Schools’ semi-annual Walk-to-School Day that took place on May 7th. This activity also took place last year in October, and in past years has done the same, with one walk in May and one in October. This activity is a great way to get the students of Cannon Falls out in the new warm weather.

What most people don’t realize is how much effort goes into this roughly 30-minute walk. “We start planning this usually in about February, trying to make sure we have the cops available so they can escort us safely, and we have the patrol kids available,” states Greene. These details really make students even more grateful for this fun activity that will definitely kickstart a positive day.

While this activity can take a while to plan, it is heavily enjoyed. On this walk, many kids were seen with smiles on their faces. “I think it is a fun way to start the morning,” states seventh grader, Lola Winchell. There are first-time walkers and people who have been doing this for years. Winchell replied when asked how long she had been doing this activity “I’d say about five years, maybe.” Some kids will roller-blade or ride bikes. The main goal is to be outside.

This activity also can help mental and physical health. Since the days of winter and rare Vitamin D are over, students can get outside on a walk and get some fresh air. The walk can provide exercise and happiness because of the gorgeous sunlight. So this event has very few to no negative effects, while there are so many positives it is hard to remember them all.

The Walk-to-School really helps get out and about in the morning. It also helps with socializing with friends and family in the sunshine. Walking to school is a great way to start the day and enjoy the morning.