Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — One week from today, Orange Beach Elementary, Foley Elementary, and Gulf Shores City Schools are joining a national event that turns the trip to school into a community event. Students and families will walk or roll together to school. The effort aims to build safer routes and healthier routines. It also gives neighbors a reason to meet on the sidewalk, not just in the car line.

The events are scheduled for Wednesday, October 8, 2025, the date set for National Walk and Roll to School Day. Fairhope East Elementary plans a campus event on Friday, October 10, reflecting school-by-school scheduling. Organizers say the weeklong window helps more campuses participate.

The Baldwin County Safe Routes to School Coalition is coordinating the countywide effort. The coalition, which includes education and government partners, has backed walking events for several years. Its goal is practical: make it easier and safer to get to class without a car.

Here’s how the day will work in coastal schools. Each campus sets its own meetup spot and start time. Families, students, and staff gather a mile or less from school. They then walk or roll the final stretch together.

Orange Beach Elementary plans to join the national celebration with a short-route group walk. Gulf Shores City Schools will participate systemwide, adding to the city’s growing culture of walking to school. Foley Elementary will host families for a similar morning meetup and group arrival.

Teachers and community members often join the groups, turning a routine trip into a small neighborhood event. The walk also gives parents a chance to see crossings and sidewalks that may need attention. That feedback can guide future safety fixes.

Local schools that are participating include: Orange Beach, Gulf Shores, Foley, Fairhope West, Fairhope East, Daphne, Daphne East, Bay Minette, Summerdale, Florence B. Mathis, St. Patrick Catholic School, and more across the county. Participation details vary by campus.

The coalition notes that simple changes in habit can have wider effects. Fewer cars near drop-off may ease congestion and help drivers see walkers more clearly. Short trips can introduce students to basic street safety skills they will use for life.

Families who want to take part are encouraged to check with their school for exact times, meeting locations and routes. Many campuses choose a nearby park, church lot, or neighborhood corner to start. The point is a safe, predictable path, not a long hike.

Organizers also stress rolling counts. Students who bike, scoot, or use a mobility device are part of the day. Helmets and bright clothing are recommended.

Coalition coordination is led by Jessica Mayo. Families with questions can email Jessica.Mayo@baldwincountyal.gov for general information or planning help. Local schools remain the best source for campus-specific plans.