Manville Schools Sprint to Success with 2025 Safe Routes to School Awards

Manville Schools Sprint to Success with 2025 Safe Routes to School Awards

MANVILLE, NJ – The Manville School District is proud to announce that four of its schools have been officially recognized in the Somerset County 2025 Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Awards. This program, held in partnership with RideWise and the NJ Department of Transportation, celebrates schools that go above and beyond to make walking and biking to school a safe, habit-forming, and high-energy experience for students.

This year’s honors highlight a district-wide commitment to student wellness:

• Weston Elementary School: Gold Award (Highest Honors)
• Roosevelt School: Gold Award (Highest Honors)
• Alexander Batcho Intermediate School (ABIS): Gold Award (Highest Honors)
• Manville High School: First Step Award

“This achievement highlights our dedication to student safety, health, and community wellness,” said Dorothy Eason, Principal of Weston Elementary. “We have seen firsthand the benefits of active transportation. Students who arrive at school on foot or by bicycle start their morning with a boost of physical activity, helping them enter the classroom feeling energized and focused.”

At the elementary and intermediate levels, the "Gold" designation recognizes a multi-year commitment to safety audits and recurring events. At Roosevelt School, this has manifested in a culture of safety and excitement.

“Winning the Gold Award reflects our commitment to student safety and education,” noted Roosevelt Principal Alicia Rissmiller. “Through our 'Walking School Bus' and partnership with Safe Routes to School, we provide hands-on learning about pedestrian, bike, and even train-crossing safety. With the support of our local crossing guards and our 'swag' incentive program, we are empowering our many first-time walkers to navigate their neighborhood safely and confidently with friends.”

The Safe Routes to School program also plays a vital role in local logistics. By encouraging "active travel," the district has seen a positive impact on the morning rush. Principal Eason added that the program has been "instrumental in managing traffic during peak drop-off and pick-up hours," creating a safer environment for all Manville families.

The district looks forward to continuing these initiatives, with Manville High School joining the movement this year with the "First Step" award, laying the groundwork for future safety leadership among the older student body.

About Safe Routes to School

The New Jersey Safe Routes to School (SRTS) program, supported by the New Jersey Department of Transportation, is a statewide initiative dedicated to partnering with schools and communities to prioritize safe, active travel. By implementing opportunities for students to walk, bike, or use other wheeled devices, the program aims to create environments that are healthy, equitable, and appealing for all.

Through the Safe Routes for All mission, the program provides safe and equitable access to active transportation for people of all ages and abilities across every neighborhood in New Jersey.