Cook County students gear up for May bike events

With sun in the forecast, students in Cook County have several bike-related events coming their way.

Statewide Health Improvement Partnership (SHIP) Coordinator Kristina Campbell Mattson told WTIP that among the efforts she is working on are special events to highlight biking and bike safety to kids in the county.

May 7 is Walk and Bike to School Day. Campbell Mattson said students are encouraged to ride bikes or scooters, and there will be two walking “bus routes.” She explained that parents can drop their children off at the Community Center or Cook County Courthouse for a coordinated walk to school.

Later in the month, on May 22, the annual Bike Rodeo will take place at the Community Center from 3 p.m to 5 p.m. Campbell Mattson said the event will include a skills course, bike maintenance, and a helmet giveaway. She encouraged those interested to contact her ahead of time about receiving a helmet, since there are limited quantities. For children who may not have their own bike, or who are unable to bring it to the community center, Campbell Mattson said there will be a fleet of bikes available for use on the day.

As the school year wraps up, some students will also see some bike programing as part of their school day. The third graders at Sawtooth Elementary and the Wolves class at Great Expectations School will participate in a bike education program, which aims to both build riding skills and teach bike and road safety.

WTIP’s CJ Heithoff spoke with Kristina Campbell Mattson for a full SHIP update on North Shore Morning. Audio of that interview can be found below.

Kirsten Wisniewski May 6, 2025