A significant milestone was reached on Friday at Lewis Elkin Elementary School, where the inaugural class of 20 fourth-grade students graduated from the innovative ‘Bike Explorers’ program. This pilot initiative aimed to enhance bicycle safety education and foundational riding skills among young riders.
Over the past four weeks, the students engaged in hands-on instruction through two dynamic sessions, with 10 students in each cohort. They were guided by certified League Cycling Instructor Rudesia Sutton El-Shabazz, who played a crucial role in building the students’ confidence and competence in core cycling skills, reinforcing the importance of riding safely and responsibly.
The culmination of the program was a joyous celebration attended by family members and friends, recognizing the hard work and progress the young cyclists had made. Among the attendees were Councilwoman Quetcy Lozada, Elkin Elementary Principal Charlotte Gillium, and representatives from the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, all of whom congratulated the students and emphasized the community-driven effort to empower youth through cycling.
To commemorate their achievements, all graduates received brand-new SE bicycles, along with safety gear including helmets, water bottles, and locks. These were generously donated by various community organizations dedicated to promoting equity, mobility, and youth development.
The ‘Bike Explorers’ pilot is not only significant for its immediate impact but also part of a larger dialogue about the necessity of cycling education throughout the city. With rising concerns over cycling safety, particularly in light of accidents involving riders of all ages, initiatives like this are essential for fostering awareness and equipping the next generation with the skills needed to navigate the roads safely.
Councilwoman Lozada and other local leaders expressed strong support for expanding initiatives like ‘Bike Explorers.’ They called for continued investment in bicycle safety programs that encourage physical activity, promote independence, and contribute to safer streets for all citizens.
Expressing pride in the achievements of the first class of Bike Explorers, the program organizers conveyed gratitude to all who contributed to the success of this initiative. Looking ahead, they anticipate returning to Elkin next spring and aim to expand the Bike Explorers program to additional neighborhoods across Philadelphia.
The success of this program was made possible by the collaboration of numerous community partners. Notable contributors included Council Member Lozada’s Office, which provided funding for the new bicycles, and Bike Co., which offered an excellent deal on the bikes.
Neighborhood Bike Works supplied the bicycles for the pilot program and mechanical support for assembling the giveaway bikes. Keystone Bicycles contributed bike locks for each student, while the family of Jorge Andre sponsored new helmets. Cadence Cycling Centers assisted in helmet procurement, and Philly Bike Ride provided the water bottles distributed throughout the educational programs.
Looking ahead, the organizers are committed to extending educational programs to priority neighborhoods such as Kensington, with the aim of inspiring all Bike Explorers to embrace cycling and explore the various routes that biking can offer throughout Philadelphia and beyond.
image source from：https://bicyclecoalition.org/elkinbikeexplorers/
