Southeast Montana News

The Yellowstone County Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Committee has introduced a new toolkit aimed at promoting walking, biking, and rolling to school. The initiative is designed to improve youth health, safety, and physical activity by providing schools, parent networks, and community partners with cost-effective strategies.

The toolkit offers resources for active transportation education and includes tips for establishing regular walking or biking groups. It also provides guidance on organizing Walk, Bike and Roll Days throughout the academic year.

“Billings Public Schools is excited to partner with the Yellowstone County Safe Routes to School Committee,” stated Dr. Erwin Garcia, Superintendent of Billings Public Schools. “This partnership promotes safety and the wellbeing of our students.”

The SRTS efforts are supported by various organizations such as schools, parent networks, neighborhood task forces, and community partners. Highland Elementary School in Billings has successfully maintained multiple initiatives encouraging walking, biking, and rolling among students. Feedback from families has been positive.

Jordan Teller, a parent at Highland Elementary and SRTS Committee member said: “Highland is so lucky to have an active Walking School Bus community.” Teller added that children feel safe and confident using these routes and noted improvements in attendance when safe travel options are available.

The committee remains available to assist any schools or groups interested in enhancing student health and safety within Yellowstone County.

Efforts by the Yellowstone County SRTS date back to the 1990s when missing sidewalks were identified as barriers for students traveling to school on foot or by bike. Recent updates include improved school walking maps and revised plans identifying transportation challenges.

The SRTS Committee comprises RiverStone Health, Billings Public Schools, City of Billings Planning Division, Billings Metropolitan Transit (MET), United Way of Yellowstone County, Parent Teacher Organizations, along with other community partners.

For further information about the initiative or assistance from the committee visit yellowstonecountysaferoutestoschool.org or call 406-247-3394.