ROGERS, AR, September 26, 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 Russell D. Jones Elementary, thanks to a generous donation from Walmart Inc.
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. Russell D. Jones Elementary celebrated the introduction of the program with a kickoff event alongside Walmart attendees, who had the opportunity to build the bikes for the program beforehand. Walmart’s contribution to Russell D. Jones Elementary is part of a larger initiative, funded by a collaboration of partners. Together with the Arkansas Department of Education’s Outdoor Recreation Grant, BNSF Railway Foundation, the Walton Family Foundation, and Trailblazers, $108,000 has been allocated to bring the All Kids Bike Learn-to-Ride Kindergarten PE Program to 12 elementary schools in Arkansas.
“Walmart believes every child deserves the opportunity to learn, explore and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, and there’s no better way to do so than through safe biking,” said Michael Lindsey, Walmart public affairs director. “This donation aligns with our ongoing commitment to serving and supporting our local communities. As we see it, we’re not just gifting bikes, we’re investing in our children’s future and in the future of our communities.”
“The skill of riding a bike provides children with physical and mental health benefits, enhances their confidence, and supports better focus in the classroom. By partnering with Walmart, we are creating a lasting positive impact for kids in communities nationwide,” said Lisa Weyer, Executive Director of All Kids Bike. At Russell D. Jones Elementary, this program will positively impact approximately 80 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 800 students will benefit from this initiative over the next decade.
Russell D. Jones Elementary School Principal, Budd Smith states, “The balance bikes that are being donated to our kindergarten classes will enhance their physical development and foster their confidence. This will encourage active play and is something our students can enjoy for a lifetime. The generous donation from Walmart will help to foster a growth mindset and our students will learn that they can do hard things through effort and consistency. A special thank you from Russell D Jones Elementary!”
Walmart 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.
