The Arbor Station Elementary school community recently united to gain invaluable insights about cycling safety during the school’s Second Annual Bike Safety Rodeo event. Organized through a partnership between Arbor Station Elementary, Metro Atlanta Cycling Club, Free Bikes 4 Kids and generous supporters, the fun-filled event aimed to empower students and families, boosting confidence to make safe choices while on the road.
With the guidance and support of cycling club members, teachers and volunteers, children were introduced to lessons on road rules, proper helmet-fitting and bike-handling skills. The valuable lessons gave children the opportunity to experience bike riding for the first time, while also emphasizing the importance of staying safe on two-wheels.
One of the event highlights was the generous donation of 22 bicycles from the Free Bikes 4 Kidz Organization. For many of these lucky students, this marked their first-ever bicycle. The smiles on their faces were a testament to the joy and freedom that biking can bring.
An Arbor Station parent was overjoyed with the overall experience for her boys.
“Arbor Station has and will continue to hold a special place in my heart," the parent said. "I was hesitant to come out today because honestly I was embarrassed that my boys did not know how to ride a bike. But they had such a great time learning to ride a bike and were blessed with bikes and such a great comradery.”
In addition to bikes, students received a helmet, water bottle, drawstring backpack, a complimentary haircut courtesy of D1 Barber and a new book of their choice, thanks to the partnership with Books-A-Million in Douglasville. This initiative aimed to promote literacy and encourage a love for reading among children, complementing the event's focus on physical activity.
The successful event demonstrated the power of community partnerships in promoting important life skills and values such as bike safety and literacy. By working together, the Metro Atlanta Cycling Club, PTSO, Books-A-Million, D1 Barbers and sponsors were able to create a memorable and impactful experience for Arbor Station students.
“In a time where digital entertainment often takes precedence, events like this remind us of the importance of physical activity, good reading habits, and community engagement in the lives of children,” said Dr. Emily Felton, Principal of Arbor Station Elementary. “The Bike Safety Rodeo exemplified these values and will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on those who attended.”