Dozens of students from Patrick M. Villano School took part in its annual Walk, Bike & Roll to School event on October 11, 2024. They walked from the M & T Bank parking lot on Kinderkamack Road to the school on Linwood Avenue just in time for morning lineup. Sixth-grader Carter Ostroff usually bikes casually around town, but today he biked as part of this event.
“Biking for me is a calming fun experience,” Ostroff said. “It is great exercise and very enjoyable with friends. I believe everyone should try to ride a bike at least once.”
Walk and Bike & Roll to School inspires people to put down their car keys and enjoy some physical activity. The hope is also to reduce traffic and air pollution, according to the event’s website.
“Walk to School Day is a cool and unique Villano tradition,” Joey Gibbs said. The elementary band instructor admitted he was a bit nervous because this was only his second time in charge of the event. His Symphonic Band joined with the Emerson High School marching band on the walk.
Meghan Correll, the high school band director was thrilled with the musicians’ performance.
“After hearing the 6th grade band rehearse the music, my nerves turned into excitement,” Correll said.
Gibbs already has plans for next year’s event which includes more preparation for his sixth grade musicians.
“I am also working on making sure the students all have flip folders for music,” Gibbs said. “Regardless, the joy radiated brighter than the morning sun. The combined band played amazing and did a great job hyping up the crowd.”
According to the Walk and Bike & Roll to School website, students in 47 states took part in the day’s event.
