PedNet Formally Partners with Columbia Public Schools
The Columbia Public Schools and the PedNet Coalition have forged a formal partnership through the districts Partners in Education program. The school district has been working with PedNet for several years now on a number of projects, including the Walking School Bus, and the two met last spring to further their connection. PedNet is an official Partner In Education with the Physical Education and Health Department of CPS.
“Community involvement in our schools is essential to student success. Having PedNet become a partner to help share knowledge about healthy and active living as well as to enhance the learning process for our students is a great thing.” Said Michelle Baumstark, School/Community Programs and Communications Coordinator with the Columbia Public Schools
The Partners In Education program began in 1984 and is celebrating 25 years in the Columbia Public Schools. The program pairs businesses and organizations with schools or programs to share resources and information to enhance student achievement and economic development. Today there are more than 250 businesses and organizations involved in the program.
“PedNet has worked closely with Columbia Public Schools for many years, on programs like the Passport to Fitness, Healthy Eating by Design, and, especially the Walking School Bus,” explained Ian Thomas, Executive Director of the PedNet Coalition. “We are looking forward to continuing that relationship with the school district to promote healthy and active lifestyles through programs and policies.”
