TUSTIN, Calif., April 23, 2024 – All Kids Bike, the national nonprofit teaching kindergarten students how to ride bikes in PE class, is activating their All Kids Bike Learn-To-Ride Kindergarten PE Program at Benson Elementary School, thanks to a generous donation from the HDR Foundation.
The comprehensive program includes teacher training and certification, a fleet of 24 bikes, pedal conversion kits, helmets, an instructional bike for teachers, two rolling storage racks, and access to a resource portal with live support for the duration of the program. Benson Elementary celebrated the introduction of the program with a kickoff event alongside HDR staff, who had the opportunity to build the bikes for the program beforehand.
“Learning to ride a bike at such an early age can open frontiers to adventure and help establish a foundation for a healthy lifestyle,” said Anna Lantin, HDR’s Southern California area operations manager. “The opportunity to partner with All Kids Bike aligns with the career passions and expertise of HDR employees – working each day to build safe, strong, connected and more sustainable communities.”
Lisa Weyer, executive director of the Strider Education Foundation, expressed gratitude for the partnership with HDR, emphasizing the transformative impact of early bike riding education. “The ability to ride a bike not only develops physical and mental well-being, instilling confidence and fostering better classroom focus, but it also empowers children with a positive foundation for a lifelong skill. We are so appreciative of this partnership with HDR.”
At Benson Elementary, this program will positively impact approximately 53 kindergarten students each year. With a lifespan of 7-10 years for the equipment, it is estimated that up to 530 students will benefit from this initiative over the next decade.
Principal Jaclyn Spangler is excited about the opportunity for children at Benson Elementary School. “We are profoundly grateful to HDR for their generous donation and commitment to enhancing the educational experience of our youngest Bears at Benson Elementary School. This gift of 24 balance-to-pedal conversion bikes, coupled with a dedicated curriculum, provides our kindergarteners not only with the joy of learning to ride a bike but also with invaluable lessons in balance, coordination, and confidence. This initiative will undoubtedly enrich our physical education program and contribute positively to our students’ growth and development. On behalf of the entire Benson community, I extend our heartfelt thanks to HDR for helping to steer our students toward a healthier and happier learning journey.”
HDR 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.
