The ability to physically to school is an issue that faces many students in NYC. According to the National School Boards Association,
The number of children who walk or bike to school has dropped dramatically in recent decades, from approximately 50% in 1969 to fewer than 15% today. Walking and biking to school not only improves student health by allowing them be physically active, but it may also help improve classroom behavior by allowing children to expend energy on the way to school, reduce traffic congestion and improve air quality around schools, and reduce school district transportation costs.
Walking or biking to school is only one of many opportunities to increase students’ physical activity levels at school. Evidence continues to support the link between physical fitness and academic achievement—a new report from New York City’s Health Department and Department of Education indicates that students who are more physically fit tend to score better on tests than their less-fit peers.
Streetsblog.org carried this video of NYC’s International Walk to School Day.
Link: 
On October 7th, NYC celebrated International Walk to School Day with a gathering in Washington Square Park. Over 40 countries celebrated on an international level.
The percentage of students in NYC who walk to school is around 80%, which is much higher than the national average. For those in NY, the ability to walk to school safely and in a reasonable amount of time are factors for parents. Community outreach programs and neighborhood associations can make a difference in ensuring that the streets remain a safe, reliable resource for students to get to school.
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