MISSOULA, MT – May 21, 2024: All Kids Bike, the national nonprofit teaching kindergarten students how to ride bikes in PE class, is activating their All Kids Bike Kindergarten PE Learn-to-Ride Program at Chief Charlo Elementary School, thanks to a generous donation from SCHEELS.
The comprehensive program includes teacher training and certification, a fleet of 24 balance-to-pedal conversion 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. Chief Charlo Elementary celebrated the introduction of the program with a kickoff event joined by SCHEELS attendees. Before the event, SCHEELS team members built the bikes for the program, and delivered them to the school.
“This is the one of the coolest things Missoula Scheels has been a part of since opening three years ago. Many of us take for granted that we were taught to ride a bike at home when we were young. We hope to continue to help schools in the Missoula community for years to come thanks to the All Kids Bike program.” Said Kalli Allen, SCHEELS Store Leader.
Lisa Weyer, executive director of the Strider Education Foundation, expressed gratitude for the partnership with SCHEELS, emphasizing the transformative impact of early bike riding education. “We are thrilled to partner with SCHEELS to bring the All Kids Bike program to life at Chief Charlo Elementary School. Their generous support is not just an investment in bicycles; it’s an investment in the health, happiness, and future success of our children. Together, we’re providing an opportunity for kids to learn a skill that will stay with them for life, promoting active lifestyles and fostering a love for physical activity.”
At Chief Charlo Elementary, this program will positively impact approximately 54 kindergarten students each year. With a lifespan of 7-10 years for the equipment, it is estimated that up to 540 students will benefit from this initiative over the next decade.
“This generous donation will provide our youngest learners with a fun and engaging way to build their biking skills and their confidence,” says Chief Charlo Principal Cory Gaub. “It will help ensure that students who have not yet had an opportunity to learn to ride a bike will get to practice alongside peers in a way that is accessible to all and designed to be flexible as their skills develop.”
SCHEELS 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.
