Despite a crisp morning air, hundreds of students, parents and family members gathered at the Countryside Clubhouse to walk to school on Oct. 9. Oak Trace Elementary students and parents meet at the subdivision’s clubhouse at 8 a.m., and were escorted to school by Westfield Police Dept. officers, Mayor Andy Cook and school staff members. This was the second year for the event at Oak Trace. Last year’s walk was such a success they plan to offer the event yearly.
The event is part of a larger initiative through the City of Westfield Parks and Recreation. The city received a Safe Routes to School Grant from IDOT which helps fund safer transportation alternatives. Currently the city is focusing on Oak Trace to be used as a model for the program. Officials said eventually events like Walk-To-School will be implemented throughout the school district. (Photos by Robert Herrington)
