2026 Safe Routes to School Conference

In 1969, almost half of all children in the United States walked or biked to school – today, 13% do.  Safe Routes to School (SRTS) is a federal initiative that started in 2005 and is designed to turn this trend around. In Wisconsin, the Bike Fed has educated more than 50,000 students with our SRTS programming. Next month, the Safe Routes to School Conference is coming to Minneapolis, MN and we encourage anyone who is interested in helping kids in their communities gain independence, get more physical activity and arrive at school ready to learn to join us there.

Two members of the Bike Fed team will be presenting at this year’s conference, which takes place October 20-22.  Education Director Michael Anderson will present on a panel entitled “Instilling a Year-round Culture of Safe Routes Throughout Communities” focused on out-of-the-classroom programming including Bike Camps and holiday-themed events. Executive Director Kirsten Finn is speaking at a session focused on helping disadvantaged communities – urban, suburban and rural – to develop and find funding for biking, walking and safe routes to school projects. 

The Safe Routes to School National Conference promises to provide concrete tools for educators and active transportation advocates to help kids feel safe and joyful on their way to school. Visit the Conference website to learn more and to register.