On April 1, excitement filled the air at Wallace Elementary as 54 fifth-grade students received brand-new bikes—complete with helmets, locks, and lights. The moment marked the culmination of a powerful learning experience that is helping Kelso students build confidence, independence, and lifelong safety skills.
For the second consecutive year, all Kelso elementary schools participated in the Let’s Go! statewide Bicycle Education Program. Taught during P.E. classes, the program equips students with the knowledge and skills they need to ride safely—whether for transportation or recreation.
Funded through the Move Ahead Washington transportation bill by the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), and administered by Cascade Bicycle Club in partnership with the AESD Network, the program is designed to do more than teach kids how to ride. It builds awareness, responsibility, and confidence.
Students learn how to:
Navigate roads and intersections safely
Understand traffic laws and pedestrian safety
Develop practical biking skills they can use in their daily lives
The impact is growing rapidly. Since launching in the 2023–24 school year, the program has expanded from 8,600 students statewide to more than 63,000 students in 300+ schools this year. Locally, more than 1,100 Kelso students in grades 3–5 participated during the 2025–26 school year, gaining hands-on experience and essential life skills.
For Wallace fifth graders, the experience didn’t end—it opened a door. With bikes of their own, students now have the chance to explore their neighborhoods, stay active, and put their new skills into motion.