This year, the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB), in partnership with Student Transportation Services of Waterloo Region (STSWR) will be holding Winter Walk Day on Wednesday, February 16.

Alternate date in case of inclement weather is Wednesday, February 23.

Active transportation such as walking, biking, scootering, wheeling, etc. has a positive impact on the physical and mental health of our students, staff and families. It builds community, creates friendships and showcases the wonderful neighbourhoods our families live in.

Encouraging our families to limit the use of vehicle transportation, not only boosts wellbeing, it helps reduce fossil fuel emissions and creates a safe active transportation environment around our schools. While we understand that these concerns won’t be fixed with one day of action, we hope this will have a ripple effect throughout the rest of the school year, and beyond.

We all have a part in making our learning environments, both inside and outside our schools, a safe place for all. Walking or wheeling is a safe, healthy choice for students and families for the journey to school.

Don’t forget to tag us on Twitter at @WRDSB or on Instagram at @wr_dsb using the hashtags #WinterWalkDay or #WWD2022 so we can share your messages.

We hope to see our streets filled with walkers and wheelers and hear all the laughter!

How to participate?

All WRDSB students, staff and families are welcome to join Winter Walk Day! As an added bonus, students can register how far they walk or wheel for a chance to win a $20 Indigo gift card. If this is something that your child would be interested in, please fill out the Student Registration form by February 9.

What about remote learners or bus takers?

Our remote learners and bus takers can participate, too! Our bus students are encouraged to walk to and from their bus stops. Our remote learners are encouraged to take some time throughout their day and walk around their neighbourhood.