What began as a simple essay about environmental responsibility blossomed into a joyful, student-led bike-to-school movement at Biddeford Intermediate School (BIS)-- all thanks to fourth-grade student Sandra O’Hare’s vision and the support of Apex Youth Connection.
Last year, O’Hare wrote an award-winning essay on sustainability that earned Biddeford Intermediate School a $250 grant from EcoMaine. Rather than celebrate the win quietly, O’Hare preferred to use the funds to make an impact; she wanted to help more kids become aware of the environment and get them excited about riding bikes.
With support from BIS Principal Lindsey Nadeau and in partnership with APEX Youth Connections, O’Hare’s idea grew into two schoolwide bike events. O’Hare organized a class survey to gauge interest, worked with Principal Nadeau to develop a plan, and collaborated with Apex Youth Connection’s staff to coordinate logistics, safety, and support. On June 3rd, her vision came to life when 20 students participated in the morning ride, and another six joined in the afternoon, their bikes having been dropped off by their parents.
“Sandra dreamed of making biking more accessible and exciting for her peers, and she did just that,” said Lindsey Nadeau, Principal of Biddeford Intermediate School. She’s only 10, but she’s already showing the kind of leadership and compassion we strive to nurture in every student.”
Students and volunteers gathered at the corner of Southgate and West at 7:20 AM to bike to school as a group on June 3 and June 10. After school, students rode from the school to the Eastern Trail, where parents picked them up, ending the ride with ice cream and big smiles. Volunteer parents, Apex Youth Connection, and the BIS community collaborated to ensure the rides were safe and memorable.
“It’s been such a joy working with Sandra and BIS,” said Sarah Hoover, Program Coordinator at Apex Youth Connection. “Getting kids active, confident, and connected with their community is exactly what we’re about. Coordinating the ride was a natural fit, and the energy these kids brought was incredible. We hope to continue to do some Bike Bus events next Fall.”
The event represents the best of what can happen when student voice, school leadership, and community organizations unite behind a common goal. As O’Hare said at the end of her first ride, beaming with pride: “I did it.”
Check out a short video clip taken by one of the volunteers: https://youtube.com/shorts/iNqyvyOYpvA
PHOTO ABOVE: Biddeford Intermediate School fourth-grade student Sandra O’Hare with Bike Bus volunteers from Apex Youth Connection upon arrival at school.
|
|
|
|
|
|
