SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (AP) - An Illinois agency is encouraging kids to go old school - and walk to school.
The Illinois Department of Transportation wants school children across the state to mark Annual International Walk to School Day by walking to school on Oct. 5, if they can.
The idea behind it is to promote walking to and from school, while also stressing improved health awareness overall.
Nearly 130 schools in Illinois hosted events on the occasion a year ago. One Aurora school handed out a "Golden Shoe Award" for the class with the most walkers on the day.
IDOT says participating schools are also being urged to take time in advance to instruct students on pedestrian safety.
For more information, the agency is encouraging students and parents to visit WalkBikeToSchool.org.
