Leelanau Montessori Public School Academy (LMPSA) launched its ‘Out-and-About Project’ bike program after receiving a $15,000 grant through Safe Routes to School and Michigan Fitness Foundation.

The program supports the school’s elementary children and offers two bike rodeos open to the public. These free events take place on Saturdays, April 19th and May 17th, from 12 - 2:30 p.m. at the LMPSA campus in Lake Leelanau and include helmet and bike reflector giveaways, riding skill stations, and a bicycle tune-up station by Suttons Bay Bikes. 

 As a means to support children and families on the road, this program will increase awareness of the need for safer bike routes in the local area.. By offering a bike club, bike trains, bike rodeos, walk-and-roll days, and integrated lessons, children gain important skills and experience to navigate the local roads and basic skills for bike maintenance. 

 LMPSA’s mission is to nurture the whole child in a prepared Montessori environment based on respect, individuality, a love of learning, and freedom with responsibility. This new program supports the elementary child’s increased need for independence, fostering confidence and responsibility through purposeful biking experiences. 

Safe Routes to School and Michigan Fitness Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private nonprofit organization that collaborates with the Michigan Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health, and Sports to affect positive change in Michigan communities. LMPSA’s vision for its bike program was recognized as a model of innovation in outdoor education and student independence.

Anyone with questions is invited to contact Emily Kotz, email kotz@leelanaumontessori.org or call (517) 896-2682. Attend the event at 7401 E. Duck Lake Rd., Lake Leelanau, MI, 49653. No RSVP is required.