Jackson, WY – As families prepare for the back‑to‑school rush, Teton County School District (TCSD) launched a hands‑on bike‑safety program to help students start the year on the right foot. In partnership with Friends of Pathways (FOP), the Teton County Sheriff’s Office and the Jackson Police Department, volunteers inspected over 170 bicycles at Jackson Hole Middle School last week.
Community partners work together for safe rides
FOP Bike Safety Coordinator Jim Rooks explained that the middle school sees the highest number of student cyclists in the area, with roughly one‑third of its pupils – between 160 and 180 children – riding to school each day. About 90% of those bikes are electric bicycles, reflecting the growing popularity of e‑bikes among youth.
“The best part of the week was talking directly with the kids about road safety – stopping at stop signs, not texting while riding, and following the rules of the road,” Rooks said. He added, “I’m really impressed with the youth in our community; they understand the problem and are eager to learn.”
Inspection details and findings
Teams checked helmets, brakes, tire pressure, handlebars and seat adjustments. As part of the “Got brakes?” initiative, volunteers tightened more than 75 brake sets, ensuring that every bike could stop safely. Inspectors also identified eight electric motorcycles that do not meet state requirements for pathway use. Those vehicles must be ridden on the street by riders at least 16 years old with a driver’s license and motorcycle permit. One e‑motorcycle tested reached a speed of 53 mph, well above the safe limit for shared pathways.
Ongoing support and parental involvement
The coalition will return to Jackson Hole Middle School on Wednesdays for the next several weeks to complete registrations and assist families who have not yet finished the process. Parents are encouraged to fill out the online registration form and bring their child’s bike for a final inspection.
“The response from parents and students has been overwhelmingly positive and supportive,” the Teton County Sheriff’s Office posted on Facebook. “We hope the community embraces these efforts as our kids learn and grow as responsible members of Jackson.”
Looking ahead
Organizers plan to expand the program to local elementary schools later in September, extending the safety net to younger riders. By fostering a culture of responsible cycling, the partnership aims to reduce accidents, promote healthy activity and protect our neighborhoods.
For more information or to register a bike, visit the TCSD website or contact Friends of Pathways.
Original reporting: Buckrail (Jackson WY) — read the source article.
