Kealakehe walking school bus sets keiki on a path to success September 29, 2025

Originally published by KITV Island News – Check out the full article here.

KEALAKEHE, Hawaii (Island News) — October is Walk and Roll to School Month in Hawaii—it’s a month to encourage communities across the islands to lace up their shoes or jump on their wheels and get to school safely while getting in some physical activity. Teachers at two Hawaii Island schools see more than just health benefits.

It’s called the Kealakehe Hawk Walk.

Spearheaded by the Partners in Development Foundation, volunteers, donned in bright yellow shirts and safety vests, get up early to pick up students on the Kealakehe Elementary and Intermediate Walking School Bus.

“We go through the neighborhoods and collect the students to promote on-time and consistent school attendance, its importance, and safe walking,” says Malaea Spencer, Kealakehe Elementary Student Activities Coordinator.

It’s not all about safety. It’s about having fun too. Music, cheers, and even Pikachu await the children upon arrival.

“I think it just gives the children a great start to the day, which helps them throughout the day; it keeps them happy. If they are happy, they say, ‘Oh my gosh!’ They get a snack, they get a token, and they go off to their classes. It just gives them a great start,” says volunteer Susie Villasenor-Yamane.

To read the full article written by Sunshine Kuhia Smith, click here.