LYLES, TN – August 30, 2024: All Kids Bike, the national 501(c)(3) nonprofit teaching kindergarten students how to ride bikes in PE class, is activating their All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program at East Hickman Elementary School, thanks to a generous donation from Kevin Baxter, owner of Baxter’s Garage.
The comprehensive program includes teacher training and certification, complete curriculum with lesson plans, games and activities, a fleet of 24 Strider balance-to-pedal bikes, pedal conversion kits, fully adjustable student helmets, an instructor bike with pedal conversion kit and helmet, two rolling storage racks, and access to a resource portal with live support for the life of the program. East Hickman Elementary celebrated the introduction of the program with a kickoff event alongside Baxter’s Garage attendees, who had the opportunity to build the bikes for the program beforehand. [KH1]
“Giving back to the children of Hickman County through the All Kids Bike program is a commitment to our community’s future. This initiative isn’t just about learning to ride; it’s about camaraderie, team building, and making a lasting difference in the lives of these kids. The fact that this program will continue for the next decade means we’re giving back over and over again. Fundraising through the raffle of my handcrafted panel was a small effort for such a big cause, and I’m honored to be part of something that will benefit our children for years to come,” said Kevin Baxter, owner of Baxter’s Garage.
Lisa Weyer, executive director of the Strider Education Foundation, expressed appreciation for the partnership with Mr. Baxter, emphasizing the transformative impact of early bike riding education. “Learning to ride a bike empowers children with a positive foundation for a lifelong skill. Bike riding develops physical and mental well-being, instills confidence and fosters better classroom focus.” At East Hickman Elementary, this program will positively impact approximately 110 kindergarten students each year by teaching them how to ride a bike in kindergarten PE class. With a lifespan of 7-10 years for the equipment, it is estimated that up to 1,100 students will benefit from this initiative over the next decade.
Principal Leigha Coble of East Hickman Elementary believes the impact of this gift will be exponential, stating, “East Hickman Elementary School is excited to announce the introduction of a new and dynamic learning initiative, made possible by the generosity of Kevin Baxter and All Kids Bike. Mr. Baxter’s thoughtful donation of bikes and a specialized curriculum will be a game-changer for our Kindergarten students, bringing a hands-on, active learning experience into the classroom. Through this donation, our Kindergarteners will have the opportunity to build confidence, develop motor skills, and experience the joy of riding a bike. This program will not only enhance physical education but also promote lifelong health and wellness habits among our youngest learners. We are thrilled to have this initiative introduced to our students. This kind of hands-on learning experience is invaluable, and we are incredibly grateful to Kevin Baxter, Baker’s Garage, and All Kids Bike for making this a reality for our school. We cannot express our thanks enough to Baker’s Garage and All Kids Bike for supporting our school and helping to equip our students with these valuable skills. This donation is truly making a difference in the lives of our children.”
Baxter’s Garage and All Kids Bike are committed to enriching the lives of young learners and cultivating valuable skills through the joy of bike riding. This collaborative effort exemplifies their dedication to building healthier, happier communities, one pedal at a time.
