A national movement to bring learn-to-bike programming to kindergarten physical education has arrived in Malone, thanks to grants from the Cloudsplitter Foundation and the Heart Network’s Creating Healthy School & Communities (CHSC) program.
The equipment from All Kids Bike is specifically for kindergarten age students and the program includes training and certification for PE teachers. With the additional support from Cloudsplitter and CHSC, Malone Central School was also able to purchase 24 bikes and helmets for grades 2-12, so more students can participate in the bike program.
“We are thrilled to bring All Kids Bike to our physical education program,” said Joey Santamoor, middle school assistant principal and director of physical education for the Malone Central School District. “We all remember the freedom and joy biking brought to us in our youth, and it’s important that all kids have the opportunity to learn and enjoy this life-long activity. Learning to ride a bike improves balance and is a great way for kids to stay active; it also builds confidence and environmental awareness. We can’t wait for our students to enjoy these new bikes.”
“Doing our part to bring programs like All Kids Bike to schools in Franklin County is at the heart of Creating Healthy Schools and Communities,” said Arriana Patraw, The Heart Network’s community health improvement coordinator. “Healthy, everyday activities like biking and walking are a critical part of a child’s mental and physical development. And while walking is universally accessible, biking isn’t — not all families have the means to buy a bike for their kids. We applaud Malone Central School for making sure all kids have the opportunity to learn how to bike.”
“The Cloudsplitter Foundation is committed to leveling the playing field so that all children in our communities have access to recreational activities,” said Chenelle Palyswiat, director of grants and administration at Cloudsplitter. “Whether it’s investing in accessible community trails, skateboard parks or helping schools provide essential gear like bikes and helmets, we’ll always be there to make sure physical activity is a right, not a privilege.”
All Kids Bike can provide districts with a range of support. In addition to a complete fleet of learn-to-ride equipment and fully adjustable helmets, schools can also access training, certification and additional curriculum and receive ongoing support. To learn more, visit allkidsbike.org.
If you’re a teacher or administrator in Franklin County, the Heart Network’s Creating Healthy Schools & Communities program can help you identify resources to bolster physical activity in school and community settings. To learn more, contact Arriana Patraw at apatraw@heartnetwork.org. To learn more about funding opportunities at the Cloudsplitter Foundation, visit cloudsplitter.org.
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