Thanks to a host of community volunteers, students at Nooksack Elementary now have a new walking path looping around the campus’ large field, extending an existing path and remaining open to the community (during non-school hours).  
The path project—one lap around the large field equals one-third of a mile—was led by Ashlee Beld and Vanessa Reamer but involves a mix of local businesses and volunteers to ensure students at the school have a place at the school encouraging accessible exercise.
 
Katie Brown, Nooksack Elementary principal, says having the path means students can be outside moving even when the field is muddy and that families can enjoy walking the path during community soccer practices and games that frequently occur on the fields. The path also creates an opportunity to start running clubs for students during recess and before or after school.
 
The new loop connects to the path from Breckenridge Road and has a pedestrian gate for access that will be closed during school hours. “Many people walk the road through the cemetery currently,” Brown says. “Now they can extend their walk.”
 
The crushed-rock path opened in time for the school year, thanks to community volunteers and sponsors, including DeKoster Excavating, Rhoads Earth Division, Granite, Len Honcoop Gravel, Gunderson Builders, P&P Excavating, Coleman Oil, Miles Sand & Gravel, Kelley Insurance, Lynden Bob’s Burgers & Brew, Everson Lions Club, Tail Waggers Pet Search & Rescue and the Families for Nooksack PTO.
 
“Time and time again, our community shows up for our kids and our schools,” Brown says. “This project is yet another reminder that we can always count on one another to make great things happen.”

For more watch the YouTube video.