October 6, 2004
Valdosta - Strolling down the Old Statenville Highway is a daily routine for these Southeast Elementary students, but today's walk is special. "I walked to school with my Mama and Daddy," said Cierra Harris.
It's Walk Your Child to School Day, and these parents are taking advantage of a little extra quality time with their kids. "Even though it wasn't that long, just the different things we talked about make a world of difference," said D'Anna Harris. "We talked about the weather and how it was cool," said Cierra.
But there's another purpose for this event. "I feel like I need to see what goes on while she walks to school," said Laschelle Carter.
Parents are getting first-hand knowledge of the dangers their kids may face out on the streets. "Whether or not we need safer sidewalks, there were some viscous dogs roaming the streets, and it gives us the opportunity to catch that before it becomes a problem," said Ronnie Mathis, organizer.
And some important policy makers are taking part too, to see what improvements in safety should be made. "To look at and re-examine those and make sure that as a government, we're making it friendly for people to walk to school," said Fretti.
So when these parents aren't there to protect them, they won't have to worry about their kids' safety.
posted at 4:20 P.M. by ashley.harper@walb.com
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