dates
i n
t he
Rock-N-Royal
Update Hopkins Public Schools
The community’s guide to the District.
Hopkins Public Schools awarded the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for fourth consecutive year
Hopkins Public Schools has received its fourth consecutive Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting award from the Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO). The District is being recognized by ASBO based on its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report for the fiscal year ending 2013. The award represents a significant achievement by the school district in meeting the highest standard of school financial reporting.
Hopkins community rallies to provide new school supplies to students
ResourceWest’s annual Back-to-School Supply Drive is one of their most important programs because success in school starts with having the basic supplies. Thanks to the generous support of individuals and area businesses, hundreds of Hopkins’ students will walk into their classrooms with new supplies, prepared and ready to learn.
September 2014
com m u ni t y Adult & Youth Fall Enrichment Options
Hopkins Education Foundation invites you to an evening of mingling, live music, dancing, food, and fun at its second annual Rock-NRoyal event. 952-988-4097. Saturday, September 6 7:00-11:00 p.m.
Hopkins Community Education fall and youth classes are waiting for you! Art, fitness, dance, wellness, and so much more! Explore our classes, meet new people, refine your skill set, or try something new!
HopkinsEducationFoundation.org
HopkinsCommunityEd.org
Vehicle Fair!
Join us for this FREE family event! See a fire truck, a front-end loader, police car, and more. Plus, fun activities, refreshments, and face painting. 952-988-5000. Friday, September 5 5:30-7:00 p.m. Harley Hopkins Family Center 125 Monroe Ave S, Hopkins
Growing up Hopkins Hopkins Early Childhood Family Education programs offer invaluable resources to the community
Becoming a parent is a life-changing event and there is no comparison to the feelings and experiences each childparent relationship brings. For 40 years, thousands of new parents have turned to Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) programs in Minnesota for vital resources, including relevant parenting information, a place to connect with other parents, and ongoing early education opportunities for their young children (ages birth to kindergarten).
A mother and her baby engage with each other during a Hopkins ECFE class.
helped me become a better parent, and guided me towards discovering my personal passion for teaching music.”
The long-running, successful ECFE programs at Hopkins Public Schools have grown over the years, embracing Anderhagen, who at the time lived outside of the Hopkins a growing community — there are 36% more families District, decided to open-enroll her children into preschool participating in Hopkins ECFE today than there were a at Hopkins. The transition from early childhood classes decade ago. Hopkins has adapted its ECFE programming to Hopkins preschool was seamless, and her family felt to fit the population’s changing needs, adding new course immediately comfortable with preschool, being familiar topics, free monthly classes, interpreters, and more with the teachers and the other families already. preschool options. But at its heart, the program’s goal has Eventually, Anderhagen took a leap and made the decision never wavered — to strengthen families and enhance the to move with her family into the Hopkins school district. ability of all parents to provide the best Volunteering with ECFE and assisting as possible environment for their child’s ECFE helps a substitute in the preschool classrooms, learning and growth. Anderhagen wanted to make sure her children you navigate “Parenting education and learning attended kindergarten at Hopkins, a school is a universal need,” said Christine system she valued. parenthood by Fehst, early childhood coordinator. “At providing education, “I remember stepping into Meadowbrook ECFE, we have a special community Elementary, this amazing school, and that continues to grow as it meets the and a sense of thinking — I want our family to be here,” said changing needs of our families.” Anderhagen. “ECFE was our gateway into belonging. Hopkins ECFE connects families Hopkins Public Schools, and we’ve remained with the District connected ever since.” For Anna Anderhagen, a mother of two, participating in How can you benefit from Hopkins ECFE? ECFE programs was life changing. As a new parent looking Today, Hopkins’ ECFE program continues to grow and for community support, she decided to visit Hopkins ECFE expand along with the District and its population. Parents after receiving a post card in the mail. who attend ECFE classes with their child know that a “From that first day, I met the most wonderful people,” special bond is created during a parent-child class time. Anderhagen remembers. “There was something really Infants delight in face-to-face time with their parent, fantastic and magical about the program — it all clicked for which helps their socialization skills. Older children enjoy me — this was exactly what I had been looking for.” purposefully crafted and fun learning experiences designed by teachers to focus on future school readiness. Other In her parent-child class, Anderhagen found a place offerings include parent-only workshops, free monthly where she was listened to, validated, and supported by classes, and many family activities. others going through similar parenting experiences. Parent educators provided her with a wealth of valuable 96% of parents attending ECFE classes reported that the information. For parents like Anderhagen, with children of programming helped improve their parenting skills. “We varying ages, sibling care is offered on-site. are always learning and growing, but when you become a parent everything changes — your life is completely Anderhagen loved the freedom and flexibility of the diverse different,” said Kathy Mattson, mother of two and a programming, and found that the classes and instructors Hopkins teacher. “ECFE helps you navigate parenthood, by nurtured her family’s individual interests. providing education and a sense of belonging.” “All of the teachers are incredibly special people,” said Explore Hopkins early childhood programs, visit Anderhagen. “They fostered a love of art in my daughter, HopkinsSchools.org/early or call 952-988-5000
Fresh New Faces this Fall Ivar Nelson, director of Paul Domer, technology, media and interim principal, information systems Eisenhower+XinXing Nelson believes that Elementary technology in schools can Not quite a new face, but foster new opportunities that serving in a new role, Paul can help all students achieve Domer, interim principal at even greater results. Eisenhower + XinXing, is excited to build on a Nelson’s background is immersed in technology. culture deeply committed to student learning. He comes to Hopkins after a 21-year career with On July 1, Domer officially began serving St. Paul Public Schools, most recently working as interim principal of Eisenhower as the director of information technology, a Elementary+XinXing Academy, replacing former position he has held since 2010. Prior to that, principal, Terri Sigüenza. he spent seven years working as a technology Domer has a rich history with Hopkins Public integration specialist, and ten years Schools. After a teaching stint working as both a technology at Columbia Heights Public teacher and an elementary Hopkins Public Schools, Domer accepted a classroom teacher. fifth-grade teaching position Schools has long at Meadowbrook Elementary are very pleased to welcome been considered a “We in 2004. In 2008, he accepted Ivar Nelson to our Hopkins team,” an offer to serve as dean of leader in educational said superintendent John Schultz. students for Bloomington “His background is grounded technology in the Public Schools. Two years later, in teaching, but he also brings Domer returned to Hopkins, Twin Cities, I am knowledge of how technology can accepting an assistant principal honored to be part support learning in the classroom.” position at Eisenhower Nelson believes that technology of its future. Elementary+XinXing Academy. can remove barriers and create —Ivar Nelson “Paul is a dynamic instructional learning environments that offer leader,” said superintendent new opportunities for students to achieve John Schultz. “He is visionary, and cares about greater results. He was attracted to this position children and learning, with a collaborative and with Hopkins Public Schools because it allows caring leadership style.” a unique opportunity for him to be closely As interim principal, Domer looks forward to connected to the classroom, while serving in a strengthening the relationships he has already District leadership role. built with Eisenhower families, and to leading a “I am very excited to join a team of such skilled familiar staff. and dedicated staff,” he said. “Hopkins Public “Teachers come to this school and stay because Schools has long been considered a leader in it’s a calling for them,” he said. “I feel the same educational technology in the Twin Cities, and I way about it, and parents feel that positive sense am honored to be part of its future.” of connection.” Outside of school, Domer can be found spending You might catch a glimpse of Nelson out time with his wife, Nicole, and their two-year-old enjoying one of his favorite pastimes — riding his motorcycle — he is even a motorcycle safety daughter — a.k.a. the joy of their lives. Running instruction rider-coach. Residing in St. Paul with around, swimming, hanging out with their dog, his wife, Karen, and their two children, Nelson Roxy, and reading books are top on the family’s also enjoys international travel. list of fun activities. Stats: • Bachelor’s, elementary education and child psychology; Master’s degree and principal licensure, University of Minnesota.
Hopkins Community Education
Stats: Bachelor’s, business, Carlson School of Management; elementary education certification, Augsburg College; Master’s, information technology and information media, St. Cloud State University.
Building a great place to live
Adult Enrichment
Our art classes are not just for artsy types. They are for you! Our instructors will guide you through wonderful art experiences, whether you have a skilled art background or are just starting out. Try mosaic glass, calligraphy, drawing, pottery, jewelry, dance, felting, voice, painting, pastels, photography, and more. Unleash your creative side and explore the arts this fall at Hopkins Community Education! Check out www.HopkinsCommunityEd.org for all of the great Hopkins fall adult enrichment classes and register today!
Jason Bodey, principal at Glen Lake Elementary Bodey has a deep understanding of the elements of STEM programming, and is devoted to technology-based learning. Jason Bodey succeeds Glen Lake’s former principal, Beth Potter, who retired after 38 years of educational service and seven years as Glen Lake elementary principal. “We are very pleased to welcome Mr. Bodey into the Hopkins community,” said assistant superintendent, Nik Lightfoot. “He brings with him a well-rounded perspective, and skills and abilities that will add great value to our learners’ experiences at Glen Lake.” Bodey comes to Hopkins after six years with the Minnetonka School District as an assistant principal. Earlier in his career, he served as an Administrative Dean for Bloomington Public Schools, and as a science teacher at both Robbinsdale ISD and Crossroads Alternative High School. Throughout his career, Bodey has earned countless accolades. His commitment to his students, and his role as an educational leader, is widely recognized. Those who have worked with him describe him as a caring, respected leader who is unconditionally student-centered. He has a deep understanding of the elements of STEM programming, and is devoted to technologybased learning. “I am very excited to be the next principal of Glen Lake Elementary,” said Bodey. “It is a privilege to join Hopkins Public Schools in continuing to create outstanding classrooms and supporting student success.” Bodey is looking forward to getting to know students, staff, and families of the Glen Lake community. Stats: Bachelor’s degree, St. Cloud State University; Master’s, education; educational administration licensure, St. Mary’s University, Winona. Bodey is currently working towards his doctorate of education at St. Mary’s.
HopkinsCommunityEd.org
Early Childhood
Vehicle Fair!
Friday, September 5 5:30-7:00 p.m. Free event! Hopkins Early Childhood Family Education (ECFE) invites your family to explore city work vehicles, enjoy face painting, free refreshments, and fun family activities. Harley Hopkins Family Center HopkinsSchools.org/vehicle
From the Superintendent, John Schultz, Ph.D.
Welcome to a New School Year! Welcome to the 2014-15 school year — it seems as though it has just been a matter of a few days since the class of 2014 graduated! Summer has raced by for me, with family trips to the cabin and numerous household projects as we prepare for our oldest daughter’s graduation next year…it seems like she just started kindergarten. Again I ponder — where has the time gone?! But, it is that time once again when we begin to gear up for the start of school. I hope you and your children are enthusiastic and excited about a new year of learning adventures! Innovative programming expands for 2014-15 As we look forward to the 2014-15 school year, we have much to be excited about. The implementation of world language will continue at each of our elementary schools, with the addition of grade 2 curriculum. The International Baccalaureate (IB) program continues implementation at North and West Junior High schools. And Hopkins High School will continue to be a lighthouse high school, offering numerous academic and rigorous learning opportunities to our students.
One of the best ways to stay connected to all the innovative programs Hopkins has to offer is through the Update newsletter and the Royal Report e-newsletter. They are great ways to learn more about our schools. They provide the opportunity to see what our students are up to, including highlighting their positive contributions to our community, and to society in general. Find our newsletters on our website, www.HopkinsSchools.org, under the “News” menu item. Come see our schools However, nothing can be better than seeing first-hand how Hopkins students are interacting and responding in a learning environment that is both engaging and rigorous. I personally encourage you to come and visit our schools.
Renovation Projects Bring Exciting Changes While students have been away on summer break, remarkable things have been happening at Tanglen and Meadowbrook Elementary schools. Construction crews worked hard through the summer months, and despite the record setting rainfall, both buildings will be ready for the first day of school. While some details will still be in flux as the projects wrap-up — staff, students and their families are looking forward to enjoying the new and improved buildings. Meadowbrook construction projects Last year, Meadowbrook was looking for ways to create more space for learning. With the construction plans, this creative and nurturing building now has room to grow. Hopkins Public Schools purchased the 1919 Meadowbrook building (formally known as the Crisis Nursery) and connected it to the existing Meadowbrook building through a short tunnel. By expanding its campus, Meadowbrook will have room for the increasing resident enrollment, as well for as the addition of two new kindergarten classrooms. What to expect this fall at Meadowbrook All work will be completed by the start of the school year. Two sections of 3rd grade will be in the remodeled 1919 building, along with the Hopkins Early Childhood programs. Additionally, in the main building, there will now be five sections of full-day kindergarten, and both the art and music rooms will be moved to larger spaces. Tanglen construction projects As a forward-thinking school with a rich history, Tanglen was in need of renovations that would update and improve facilities for years to come. Construction on three large projects, including an upgraded kitchen, a heating and cooling system, and a new gymnasium, started early last spring. These changes will open up the building, allowing for an updated campus that will serve the students and staff of Tanglen well into the future. “The Tanglen school community is very excited by all the changes coming to our building this fall,” said Jim Hebeisen, Tanglen Elementary principal. “As we look to the future, these renovated facilities will help us continue to provide the best learning environment possible for our students.” What to expect this fall at Tanglen Renovation within the building will be completed by the start of school year. The main entrance will remain closed, and the change in parent pick-up procedures implemented last spring will continue temporarily. The gymnasium renovation will be completed by midNovember 2014.
I remain honored to be the Superintendent of Hopkins Public Schools. I am extraordinarily proud of our students, the myriad of outstanding educational opportunities and pathways for students to pursue, along with the talented Hopkins staff. Sincerely,
John W. Schultz, Ph.D. Superintendent
Tanglen principal Jim Hebeisen and students dig in at a ground breaking ceremony kicking off the renovation project last spring.
District Life Changer
Kathryn Moore
“Welcome to Hopkins Public Schools!” is a phrase that parent educator, Kathryn Moore greets families with as she meets with Hopkins’ parents and littlest learners — infants, toddlers, and preschoolers. Moore, mom to three sons, understands that parenting can be overwhelming at times. “Kathryn believes that parenting is one of the most important roles in life, and offers knowledge and support in a way that respects the parenting style, experience, and situation of each family,” said Sara Chovan, ECFE parent educator. “She is passionate about families, and is a natural at making strong connections with parents so that they gain a sense of belonging in our school community.”
Though she reaches numerous parents each year, Moore knows there are still families who don’t know the gem they have in their community — Hopkins Community Education Early Childhood Programs and Preschools. Therefore, Moore takes Hopkins early childhood programming on the road, meeting with parents out in the community to offer education and support, and to connect them with resources offered through the District and the community. “We know now that early education is as important as elementary education — if not more so,” said Moore. Moore values bringing families with young children together around their common concerns as parents, and offering them support through parent-child classes, family activities, one-night workshops, one-to-one visits, and free monthly classes. “It is rewarding to connect with families and work toward building a caring community,” said Moore. “We have that here in Hopkins.” Background: Moore moved to Minnesota in 1989, and felt very fortunate to reside in the Hopkins School District with its reputation for excellence. Her three sons have all attended Hopkins Public Schools, starting out in Hopkins Early Childhood programs, attending ECFE classes and Kaleidoscope Preschool. Passionate about working with kids and families, it was a natural decision for Moore to eventually pursue a Master’s degree in education, along with a license in parent and family education. Moore currently holds several roles — parent educator for Hopkins ECFE classes, Early Childhood outreach coordinator, and a Parent/Infant class educator through a new program that is on location at Park Nicollet Pediatric Clinic in St. Louis Park. What do you love most about working at Hopkins Public Schools? I am fortunate to work with our high quality early childhood staff who support a strong beginning for children and families. Proudest moments? Children are a precious gift and being a parent is one of the most exciting experiences in life! In the early years, when parents are feeling joy, confusion, and exhaustion — sometimes all at once — they need support from other adults. So, I find great joy in building relationships with families, providing information and support, and I consider it a privilege to be a part of the journey with parents and their children. Teaching philosophy? Children often pay more attention to what you do, than what you say! Stats: • B.A., elementary education; Master’s degree in education, and a parent & family education licensure from the University of Minnesota. Originally a Hopkins Early Childhood programs participant, Kathryn is now passionate about serving families in her roles as Parent Educator and Outreach Coordinator.
Where are they now?
Community Spirit Therese Tennessen Weil
Like many first-time kindergarten parents, Therese was a little nervous about “cutting the apron strings,” so she began volunteering to be close to her daughter. Therese soon realized that her daughter was in excellent hands, but by that time she had come to love interacting with the Meadowbrook Elementary staff and parents. Therese has helped out in the classroom, chaired several programs, and serves as book fair coordinator and PTO treasurer. She also spends one day a week making copies for teachers — and jokingly tells her kids that she is responsible for all the homework sheets they receive! Proudest moment volunteering? Nothing feels better to me than handing a teacher a big box of copies, knowing that he or she doesn't have to work after school or over lunch to make them. Our teachers work so hard for our kids and so much of what they do is on their own time — it's nice to give a little of that back to them! What person has influenced you most? My kindergarten teacher! Friends and I had made some bad choices one day, and Mrs. Dubatz showed us the value of working hard to fix our mistakes. Because of her, I try to keep in mind, as a parent, that a mistake can be an opportunity for a learning moment, if it’s handled with compassion and caring. People would be surprised to learn... I am probably the oldest kindergarten mom ever to pass through Meadowbrook! Mountains or Ocean? Ocean. I'm originally from the Milwaukee area near Lake Michigan, and I lived in Hawaii for years. There's a reason why I gravitated to the Land of 10,000 Lakes — I need to have a body of water nearby to ground my soul. I volunteer because... I like to give back!
Know someone we should feature on this page? Email Carrie.Gerard@HopkinsSchools.org
Kirsten (Searles) Eickenberg: 1996 graduate
Caitlin Dole Bernett: 2007 graduate
Jessica Besonen : 2006 graduate
Stats: Mindfulness Product Manager, UnitedHealth Group • B.A. in economics and psychology, St. Olaf College, Minnesota; MBA, Capella University. fun facts For Kirsten, Hopkins is the perfect place to live, and after 34 years, she still loves it. Her two children go to Alice Smith Elementary, the same school Kirsten attended. “I am thankful my kids are getting the same highquality education that I remember,” said Kirsten. “It just keeps getting better!” Kirsten has a position at UnitedHealth Group in Minnetonka, building a new business unit supporting the development and deployment of mindfulness training programs to help make people healthier. Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins High School? My dad’s (former Hopkins High School associate principal Dale Searles) office. Favorite Band of 1996? Counting Crows. What Hopkins teacher made a difference? Phil Abalan was instrumental in helping me find inner strength, and to believe in myself and persevere. How did Hopkins prepare you? The rigorous curriculum, especially the Honors and AP courses, successfully prepared me for college and for the challenges I encounter in the workplace today.
Stats: Pharmacy Intern, Park Nicollet Methodist Hospital • Pharmacy student, University of Minnesota; B.A., Chemistry, Carleton College, Minnesota fun facts A highlight of her college experience, Caitlin studied in Spain for a semester, meeting up with many Hopkins classmates in Madrid. She served as captain of the Carleton’s womens lacrosse team for two years, and credits the experience to her time spent as goalie while on the Hopkins girls lacrosse team. Caitlin now enjoys coaching lacrosse to kids in the Twin Cities area. Attending the University of Minnesota’s College of Pharmacy, Caitlin hopes to work as a geriatric specialist in a hospital upon graduation. Caitlin recently and happily married Tina Bernett at a ceremony with friends and family. Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins High School? The turf field. Favorite music artist of 2007? Rihanna. What Hopkins teacher made a difference? Ms. Bailey was the voice of reason for me, she was someone we could turn to for advice, and we could count on her to give us a straight answer. How did Hopkins prepare you? I learned to be creative and to question the world around me.
Stats: Associate Project Manager, The Opus Group • B.S. Construction Engineering and Community & Regional Planning. Fall 2014, will attend the University of St. Thomas for an MBA. fun facts At The Opus Group, Jessica manages construction projects of all sizes. She recently managed a $7.8 million warehouse project in Shakopee, Minnesota. A milestone in her personal life, Jessica completed her first long-distance triathlon race, Ironman 70.3, this past year. This fall, she will pursue an MBA degree at the University of St. Thomas. Jessica looks forward to applying what she learns in graduate school toward real-life situations in the work place. Favorite hangout spot at Hopkins High School? The track was a very influential place for me. What Hopkins teacher made a difference in your life? Jarrin Williams, Hurdle Coach, he wasn’t just a coach, he was like our big brother. Greg Olsen taught me incredibly valuable business skills. His lessons gave me a strong advantage compared to my peers in college, I am so grateful to him. How did Hopkins prepare you? The track team taught me determination, and that I could be all that I wanted to be. The AutoCAD classes reassured me that I wanted to go into the construction industry. Update September 2014
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Permit No. 161 Hopkins, MN 55343
September Events First day of school – learning begins for Hopkins students! September 2: Grades 1-12 September 3: Kindergarten Vehicle Fair – join us for this free family event! See a front-end loader, police car, and more. Activities, refreshments, and face painting. Friday, September 5, 5:30-7:00 p.m. Harley Hopkins Family Center, 125 Monroe Ave S, Hopkins. 952-988-5000. Rock-N-Royal! Hopkins Education Foundation invites you to an evening of mingling, live music, dancing, food, and fun. Questions? 952-988-4097. Saturday, September 6, 7:00-11:00 p.m. Hopkins Center for the Arts. www.HopkinsEducationFoundation.org Hopkins Homecoming Friday, September 19 Hopkins High School Early Childhood Fest – A fun-filled celebration with family friendly entertainment and refreshments. Saturday, October 4, 10:00-11:30 a.m. Hopkins Library, 22 - 11th Ave N, Hopkins Come Dance With Me! Dance to the sounds of Sinatra-style singer Tim Patrick and his Blue Eyes Band at a community dance. Friday, October 10, 7:00 p.m., free dance lesson at 6:15 p.m. Hopkins Eisenhower Community Center, Oakwoods Room
1001 Highway 7 Hopkins, MN 55305 www.HopkinsSchools.org 952-988-4000 Time Value
Residential Postal Patron ECRWSS
Hopkins Education Foundation (HEF) and Fortress Medical Systems present:
Saturday, September 6 7:00-11:00 p.m.
Get Connected, Stay Connected Find us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/HopkinsPublicSchools
Hopkins’ STEM Curriculum Continues to Expand
HopkinsEducationFoundation.org
Invite your neighbors, friends, and alumni, for an evening of dancing, mingling, and fun at Hopkins Center for the Arts. Enjoy live music by Wheelhouse, a band of Hopkins alumni. Purchase delicious eats from the Taste of Target Field food truck, and beverages from the Big 10 Restaurant. Must be 21 or older.
Safe Routes to School Paves Way to Savings
New this year, all District elementary schools will have full STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) curriculum implementation in grades 1-6: New this year
• Hopkins preschools will offer STEM curriculum in every classroom.
• Grade 1 will begin EiE (Engineering is Elementary) curriculum this year. Each grade 1 classroom will have a residency instructor from the Science Museum of Minnesota to teach the EiE STEM unit with the classroom teacher (typically over a two-week period). Each school will also have a grade 1 EiE Family Night. • Grades 2-5 continue full EiE implementation. • Grade 6 STEM curriculum continues with the Hopkins Science units. Hopkins’ goal is to expand STEM curriculum into all the kindergarten classrooms that do not already have STEM units, by the 2015-16 school year. Thanks to HEF (Hopkins Education Foundation) funding, Hopkins also has EiE units in all Kids & Company before- and after-school child care programs, and for use in other before- and after-school youth enrichment programs.
A nationwide movement called Safe Routes to School (SRTS) is bringing big changes to student transportation. SRTS started in 2005 as part of an effort to increase opportunities for children to safely walk and bicycle to school. “Youth get more physical activity, safety, and enhanced social connections,” said Cathy Rude, Hennepin County Public Health Department’s SRTS coordinator. “Participating school districts gain huge savings with a reduction in buses and fuel costs.” Hopkins transportation department among first to explore SRTS In 2010, Hopkins Public Schools connected with the Minnesota Statewide Health Improvement Program to explore SRTS. This national program works to establish safe and convenient routes for students to walk or bike to and from school.
Hopkins transportation staff was eager to explore the role SRTS could play in transportation. They assessed the current transportation system and discovered opportunities for change. “SRTS changed our view of youth walking to school, and allowed us to make beneficial improvements to transportation and student well-being,” said Derrick Agate, Hopkins transportation supervisor. Health benefits and cost savings In addition to the increased health benefits of students getting daily exercise and making social connections walking to school with others, the District gained huge savings with a reduction in buses and fuel costs. “We were able to take some resources out of the buses, and put them back into the classroom where students can benefit the most,” said Agate.