'Bike bus' creates fun and safe way to get to school in Worthington

WORTHINGTON, Ohio (WCMH) -- In one Worthington community, the morning commute to school is being made more fun and safer for bicyclists.

That's being done through the "bike bus" each Wednesday -- in the rain or shine, heat or cold -- Rob Smith, wellness teacher at Worthington Hills Elementary, circles the neighborhood with a group of student and parent volunteers playing music, greeting the kids as hundreds of them fall in line behind him peddling to school.

"It really makes children want to go to school on those days," Smith said. "They just love getting to school that way, and they start the day with a smile and a little spark of energy."

He said it also gives the kids confidence through independence, learning the safety rules of the road, and it motivates the littlest ones to learn how to ride a bike so they can also join in.

"I like seeing everyone and how happy they are when they do it. It's very fun," said 5th grader Evey Thomas.

Third graders Jack Sohner and Avi Sogal agree.

"I like seeing other people just like going down the streets having lots of fun," Jack said.

"I'm with my friends, and biking brings me happiness," Avi said.

Whether it's one or two kids biking to school, or hundreds as they have in Worthington Hills, make sure to slow down and only pass if you can safely do so with three feet of space between your vehicle and the bike.