An estimated 450 Walnut Elementary students and their loved ones walked to school Wednesday morning as part of the international Walk to School Day.
Walk to School Day has special significance to the students because Walnut is a magnet school and few of the students enrolled walk to school on a regular basis due to distance and time.
Students, loved ones and teachers all gathered at Cornerstone Church, about one-half mile from Walnut, and walked to school together.
Retired teacher and proud PTA Grandpa, Ken Oyer, says the event has been going on annually for the past three years at Walnut and that each year more and more students and families participate.
Oyer explained that every classroom on campus was represented in the event, which is aimed at promoting fitness, environmental awareness and fellowship.
The parent of a second grader at Walnut, Erin Dini, appreciated the chance to walk to school.
“We live on the other side of town and this gives my son a chance to experience walking to school. This is a wonderful opportunity to participate in an activity that promotes school unity and the proud Walnut parents.”
This year a special appearance was made by two Modesto Nuts mascots to help students walk.
At the end of the event, students and loved ones were treated to free water, bananas and apples for a nutritious snack.
