Baltimore, MD (October 10, 2018) – Today, the Baltimore Department of Transportation Director Michelle Pourciau, was joined by Baltimore City Schools Superintendent Dr. Sonja Santelises, Councilmember Kristerfer Burnett  and Safe Kids Baltimore, along with parents, teachers and school children to celebrate International Walk To School Day.  The event, which promotes pedestrian safety, physical activity and a cleaner environment, was held at Wildwood Elementary/Middle School located at 621 Wildwood Parkway in west Baltimore.

The Department of Transportation led students, teachers, parents and community leaders on an educational walk outside of the school to promote safe pedestrian and bicycle practices. 

“International Walk to School Day gives children, parents, school administrators, and community leaders the opportunity to be part of a worldwide event that promotes pedestrian safety," said Director Pourciau. "Walking to school reduces traffic congestion, improves air quality, and is a great way for children to exercise."

Students from Wildwood Elementary/Middle School joined over 16,000 schools from across the United States, along with children from 43 countries around the world to celebrate International Walk to School Day.  This worldwide event brings awareness to the importance of pedestrian and bicycle safety while teaching young students how to safely walk to school. 

In addition to promoting pedestrian safety, International Walk to School Day recognizes important health goals such as promoting physical activity among children, creating a cleaner environment, reducing traffic congestion and building connections between students, parents and the community.