District 65 will participate in International Walk to School Day Oct. 5 as a complement to Evanston’s “Let’s Move!” initiative aimed at encouraging greater physical activity.
Evanston and Skokie students will join 2,233 other schools in the country as well as 42 other nations partaking in the fitness event, according to a news release issued Tuesday by the city.
Evanston first became involved in “Let’s Move!” after the health department coordinated a promotional video for the nationwide campaign in June. Trumpeted by First Lady Michelle Obama, “Let’s Move!” aims to fight childhood obesity and promote regular exercise, according to its website.
Walk to School Day will not only supplement the national cause but also provide much-needed relief locally. During schools’ drop-off and pick-up hours, area traffic increases by an estimated 25 percent, according to the news release.