Grant helps primary school buy new bikes
September 29, 2021 | By Waterbury RoundaboutBrookside Primary School recently was awarded a $3,400 grant by the American Heart Association’s school-based youth programs, Kids Heart Challenge and American Heart Challenge to purchase bikes for its physical education program.
The annual grants support schools with funding for wellness programs. The national nonprofit is using its grant programs to supply schools with more resources such as physical activity equipment, water bottle filling stations, and educator training opportunities.
"Bike riding is a fundamental recreational skill that promotes a lifetime of physical activity and heart health. With this grant, we are purchasing 10 high-quality bikes from Waterbury Sports to ensure that all students have multiple opportunities to learn to ride while attending Brookside Primary School," said Brookside PE Teacher Carol Baitz.
Another three bikes will be included in the purchase using $900 from school funds this year, she added.
Baitz said she hoped to have the bikes in time for students to do some biking this fall during PE classes and again in the spring. “Those that are learning stay on the pavement. The kids that are good riders turn the whole playground into an off-road course,” she said.
The Heart Association programs raise funds while challenging students to be physically active. It will award grants twice a year to schools across the U.S. Learn more about the programs online at heart.org/kids.