Students at Vida Charter School recently completed a bicycle safety and health unit, culminating in the annual bicycle tour around town. Health and Physical Education teacher Kirk Mummert coordinates a bike ride every May for 2nd graders.
The biking field trip is the capstone of the bicycle unit that Mr. Mummert teaches to 2nd graders each year, and occurs after students practice in the gym and then on the playground. Executive Director, Dr. Christine Miller, says Mr. Mummert’s instruction is so impactful, especially because this may be the first bicycling experience for many of the 2nd graders.
This year, Mr. Mummert led a ride from Vida out to the Josiah Benner Civil War Hospital and back. As in past years, the group was accompanied by a local police officer on a bike, along with other volunteers and staff. Each student received a bicycling “driver’s license” in recognition of their accomplishments. The school has built up a supply of children’s bicycles, which initially was supported through funds raised at the ACCF Giving Spree as well as generous donations from Recycle Bicycle in Harrisburg.
Vida’s Mission and Vision
Vida Charter School believes in preparing children for life by nourishing the students’ minds and bodies. Literacy and core instruction delivered in English and in Spanish foster success in a diverse world, while an emphasis on wellness and inclusivity ensures a holistic approach to a rigorous curriculum.
Vida’s vision is that all will become:
- At or above grade level in all subject areas
- Bilingual and bi-literate in English and Spanish
- Compassionate global citizens
- Real-world problem solvers
- Of healthy body and mind
Vida has a long history of supporting healthy lifestyles, including through bicycling. For instance, the Adams County Heritage Festival Kids Bicycle Parade was first coordinated by Maribel Gonzalez, then a Vida teacher. The 2023 and 2024 Kids Bicycle Parade Marshal Community Giver was Vida’s Principal, Dr. Elana Nashelsky. Past Kids Bicycle Parade Marshals Community Givers were Vida teachers Arturo Sanjuan-Martinez and Tania Reyes.
Healthy Adams Bicycle/Pedestrian, Inc. (HABPI) is extremely grateful for Vida’s fantastic work.
By Healthy Adams Bicycle/Pedestrian, Inc.