Norte In School

Kids learning to move and be physically active as part of ordinary life – like going to school! And, kids then inspiring their parents, teachers, principals, neighbors, community to do the same is a powerful means to sustainable living and healthfulness.

Independent, happy, confident, ready to learn youth are empowered to be guardians of their health. They will develop lifelong habits to move more and sit less and be leaders in their community.

Norte administers a school-based, walk and bike-focused initiatives across the Grand Traverse region. Our programs, projects, and events empower students of all ages, and their adults, to be active for life.

Norte’s school-based education programs:

  1. The Bike Mas Project: An adventure-based after-school empowerment program for upper elementary and middle school students. (4-week program in both spring and fall)
  2. Estrellas: A learn-to-ride program for preschoolers using balance bikes. (4-week indoor in the gym during the winter)
  3. Solution: A learn-to-wrench program for upper elementary and middle school students.

Norte’s school encouragement programs and events:

 The benefits of walking and biking to school are many, of course:

  • Improved concentration in class
  • Reduced traffic congestion
  • Improved Cognitive Functioning
  • Release of the brain protein…BDNF
  • Stronger sense of community
  • Safer streets: Communities the walk and bike see lower crash rates across the board.
  • Distraction-free quality time with families and classmates
  • Reduced air pollution near schools
  • More exercise without a gym!

Partner communities:

Partner schools:

Safe Routes To School infrastructure projects in progress:

Community Partners:

Passionate about kids getting themselves to YOUR school? Get involved!

  • Ideas on what should be done to make your school more walkable/bikeable? Spots for Park & Stroll locations? Routes for bike trains or walking buses? What safety concerns do you see around your school? How can we better encourage and empower more kids to actively get themselves to your school?