Iowa schools just made history! Over 130 schools across the state participated in Walk Bike Roll to School Day 2025, making it one of the biggest statewide celebrations of active transportation we’ve ever seen. From the smallest rural schools to bustling city campuses, students, teachers, families, and community members came together to celebrate healthy habits and safer routes to school.
Communities Came Together
On May 7—and in the days surrounding it—students walked, biked, and rolled to school with big smiles and lots of energy. Some schools organized group rides and “walking school buses.” Others invited local police departments or community leaders to join in, held safety clinics, or simply encouraged families to leave the car at home for the day.
It wasn’t just about getting to school—it was about coming together as a community to promote wellness, safety, and sustainability.
Why It Matters
Walk Bike Roll to School Day is part of a national movement to highlight the importance of safe, accessible routes to school. It also encourages kids to be more physically active, reduces car traffic around schools, and helps create healthier, more livable communities.
In many cases, schools use the event as a launching point for year-round programs focused on walking and biking, traffic safety education, and infrastructure improvements.
There’s Still Time to Get Involved!
If your school missed the May 7 event—don’t worry! There’s still time to participate. Schools can host Walk Bike Roll events any day in May. Whether it’s a big celebration or a small walk with a few families, every step (or pedal!) counts.
You can register your school and find free event planning resources at walkbiketoschool.org.
Let’s keep the momentum going, Iowa! Together, we’re building a future where kids can safely and joyfully walk, bike, and roll to school every day.
Iowa Safe Routes to School is funded through a matching Iowa DOT grant. Help us raise our 20% of the grant right here to continue our efforts to expand active transportation opportunities across the state. Thank you.