Lessons Learned from the implementation of a Walking School Bus Program in Urban Maine

Introduction: According to the CDC, 60 minutes of daily physical activity is recommended for children. For low-income youth residing in urban areas, it can be challenging to achieve this due to home-life constraints and safety concerns. However, safe, structured physical activity, such as walking to/from school with a community-organized Walking School Bus (WSB), can help youth reach this goal.

Methods: Working with parents, volunteers, school administrators, and community partners, a community-led WSB was implemented for elementary students in urban Maine. The school has a higher than average transition student population; approximately 50% of students are identified as racial / ethnic minority, and 80% receive free/reduced lunch. To assess the efficacy of the program, structured interviews were conducted with local WSB coordinators and Bicycle Coalition of Maine staff who provided technical assistance. Focus groups were conducted with parents of children participating in the WSB. Data were analyzed using an inductive model and thematic analysis.

Results: Salient determinants of participation were identified. Examples include parents’ positive attitudes towards the WSB and perceived convenience of the WSB. We also identified key facilitators such as warmer weather and barriers such as concerns regarding child safety, and managing volunteers associated with implementation. Finally, participants discussed challenges such as recruitment, scheduling and retention of students and volunteers.

Conclusion: The implementation of the WSB has important implications for improving the health of current elementary students in urban Maine and similar states. We will discuss the lessons learned which may be useful for future community implementation of WSBs.