Sacramento middle school boosts attendance with bike program
- A middle school in Rancho Cordova has launched a bike program to improve student attendance.
- The initiative has helped students like Jason Edelman, who was frequently tardy, and has eased transportation issues for families.
- The program has resulted in increased student morale and a rise in enrollment, with 70 more students this year.
In Rancho Cordova, a middle school has implemented a bike program aimed at improving student attendance. The initiative has proven effective, with students like Jason Edelman, who was tardy 100 times last year, now benefiting from the gift of a bike. Attendance technician Michael Rosales emphasizes the importance of being present at school for both learning and social interaction. The program not only assists students but also alleviates transportation issues for families, as many lack reliable means to get to school or run errands. Rosales and his team conduct home visits to support families struggling with attendance. They have discovered that some families do not have any transportation options, making the bike a valuable resource. This initiative allows parents to use the bikes for various tasks, such as grocery shopping, thereby supporting the entire family unit. The positive impact on student morale is evident, with many students expressing happiness about attending school. The school is actively seeking more bikes, even those needing repairs, to expand the program. A dedicated teacher is volunteering to fix these bikes, ensuring they can be utilized effectively. The initiative has not only improved attendance rates but has also led to an increase in student enrollment, with the school seeing a rise of 70 students compared to the previous year. Overall, the bike program has fostered a sense of community and responsibility among students and families, highlighting the importance of attendance and the role of transportation in education.