"Hike it! Bike it! I Like it!"

Three San Ramon elementary schools will participate in the fourth annual Walk ‘n Roll to school program today as part of International Walk to School Month.

Neil Armstrong, Coyote Creek and Live Oak elementary schools will take part in the event, which aims to promote health and physical activity while teaching children safe walking skills as well as inspiring communities to create safe routes to school for pedestrians and cyclists.

The program also helps to encourage concern for the environment and to reduce traffic congestion, pollution and speed near schools.

This year’s slogan is: “Hike it. Bike it. I like it!”

Throughout the month, participating students will track the days they walk or bike to school at walkbikechallenge.com and turn in their results at the end of the month to win prizes.

At Neil Armstrong Elementary, snacks and water will be provided for participating students.

San Ramon police and fire Departments will participate in the festivities. School board members have been invited to join as well.

“Kids who walk or ride will get a sticker that says: ’I Walked to School Today with Kids Around the Globe!’” said Audra Carrion, Neil Armstrong’s PTA health and safety chair.

The school will also be hosting a Bike Rodeo in conjunction with "Street Smarts" on Wednesday, October 12, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. – an after-school activity that allows students a chance to practice their riding skills in a safe, fun and supervised environment.

Last year, families in more than 40 countries took part in International Walk to School Month.

Do you plan to participate in walk/bike-to-school month? How and why? Tell us in the comments.