Malden schools “Step Up” for Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day

Special to The Advocate

On May 7, 2025, students, families, teachers and administrators across Malden took part in Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day. The day is an annual event meant to foster good health, public safety and an active lifestyle for children and families, as well as call attention to the importance of having safe ways for children to get to and from school.

Mayor Gary Christenson, who led a group of students to the Ferryway School, voiced his firm support for Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day and its stated goals. “Events like these demonstrate what our City is capable of when civic and community leaders rally around good public policy – namely the safety and health of our City’s children.”

Support for Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day grew out of the involvement of committed parent/teacher organizations (PTOs) at Beebe, Ferryway, Forestdale, Linden and Salemwood Schools, as well as the efforts of community organizations like Malden Safe Streets. Ward 3 Councillor Amanda Linehan was also a driving force behind organizing the event, helping parents and schools register to participate.

Councillor Linehan congratulated the work of residents, families and school staff on putting the event together. “I am thrilled to share that we’ve achieved our goal of having every Malden K-8 school participate in this statewide program promoting active transportation, and it’s all thanks to you – well done!”

“It’s always encouraging to see our community prioritize good health, public safety, and active lifestyles,” said City of Malden Transportation Planner Jim Tarr, “particularly when it comes to the health and safety of Malden’s children. The City, schools, and participating residents look forward to making Walk, Bike, and Roll Day an annual event children and families enjoy for years to come.”

For more information on participating in Walk, Bike & Roll to School Day or for more information on the state’s Safe Routes to School program, please visit https://www.mass.gov/safe-routes-to-school or reach out to Tarr at jt***@**********en.org.