Lisle, Ill. – On Thursday, October 22, Kennedy Junior High School opened its doors to a new bike program that aims to get middle‑school students active, confident and knowledgeable about safe cycling. The “Jeff Moores Bicycle Initiative,” a district‑wide effort named for a beloved physical‑education teacher, was demonstrated for parents, educators and local volunteers using a fleet of donated bicycles and helmets.
Partnerships bring bikes and expertise to the school
The program is a collaboration among the Naperville Outdoor Alliance, Kennedy Jr. High Home and School, and Spokes Bikes. Volunteers Phil and Brandon Askelson constructed bike‑storage racks from materials donated by 84 Lumber, ensuring a permanent, secure place for the equipment on campus.
“Positive connections are made by people working together,” said PE educator Kevin Quaid, highlighting the community spirit that underpins the initiative.
Curriculum integration and future plans
Eric Nelson, the school’s PE teacher and instructional coordinator for the wellness department, explained that the initiative will be woven into regular physical‑education classes. “The program, part of the district‑wide Jeff Moores Bicycle Initiative, aims to get 6th, 7th and 8th graders active, moving, and exploring on two wheels during Physical Education classes,” Nelson said. In addition to riding time, students will learn basic bike maintenance, local trail navigation, and the legal rules governing bicycles, e‑bikes and e‑scooters.
Nelson added that field trips to the nearby trail system are planned, giving students hands‑on experience with the region’s extensive network of bike paths.
Community support and nonprofit involvement
Matt Sharritt, president of the Naperville Outdoor Alliance, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. “We are thrilled to be able to support Kennedy students,” he said, noting that the alliance previously launched a successful bike program at Naperville North High School in 2019.
The Naperville Outdoor Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to expanding outdoor recreation opportunities by partnering with public agencies, private businesses and community volunteers. Its involvement underscores the program’s broader goal: to foster healthier, more engaged youth while strengthening family and community ties.
How to learn more or get involved
Parents and community members who wish to learn more about the Jeff Moores Bicycle Initiative can contact Eric Nelson at (630) 747‑3742 or [email protected]. For information about the Naperville Outdoor Alliance, reach out to Matt Sharritt at (630) 280‑4547 or [email protected], or visit the organization’s website at www.napervilleoutdooralliance.org.
Stories and interviews with participating students are expected to appear in the Daily Herald and on NCTV‑17 in the coming weeks.
Original reporting: Positively Naperville (Aurora area) — read the source article.
