BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — Over 40 kids from Liberty Elementary School in Bismarck took part in the Liberty Bike Bus ride on Thursday, September 12 to learn how to safely navigate the streets to school on their bicycles.

All of the kids were up bright and early as the sun rose over Horizon Park, where they all put on their helmets and rode together as a group. A couple of Bismarck Police Department (BPD) officers were there to help direct traffic for them as they peddled their way to school.

Halle Johnke was among many of her classmates who joined in on the early morning group ride. She says they all learned the rules of the road before taking off down the street.

“We learned that you have to stay on the right side of the road and always look both ways before crossing the street,” said Johnke.

Caity Horne, BPD Community Engagement, reminded the kids to obey the traffic laws, and kept a watchful eye on them as they rode through the neighborhood.

“It is very important that we are a part of these bike buses, to ensure they get to school safely,” said Horne.

Officer Horne says that kids should stay on the sidewalk when riding their bikes for their own safety, but if they have to use the street, she says they should stay as close to the curb as possible.

Jordan Nygaard organized the group ride, and he says the goal of the event is to get kids more comfortable on their bicycles while riding through the neighborhood.

“We want them to make it a daily habit to get on their bikes and enjoy riding,” said Nygaard.

Nygaard says safety should always come first before any kid pushes the pedal.

“Hopefully, this group ride will help them to become better and safer riders. They need to apply those principles and rules of the road when they’re out biking with themselves or with friends,” said Nygaard.

During the ride, Nygaard lead the group through the neighborhood and safely across several street intersections. He says he’s very appreciative for the police taking time during their busy schedules to look out for the safety of the kids in his group.

“We certainly welcome the Bismarck Police Department for joining us. It makes our event a little safer, and I know the kids enjoy interacting with the police more and more,” expressed Nygaard.

Officer Horne says she enjoys spending time helping the kids and has fun taking part in the event.

“The kids love seeing us in the squad cars. They absolutely love that we put the lights on and stop traffic for them. It kind of makes them feel famous for a little bit,” said Horne.

Along with her classmates, Halle says she is already on her way to knowing how to ride safely, and Officer Horne wants to remind other motorists to put their phones down while driving. She says that way, they can keep an eye out for the kids riding their bikes, so everyone gets where they need to be safely.

Nygaard says the Liberty Bike Bus has more fun rides ahead. Next month, they plan to do another group ride to commemorate “National Walk and Bike to School Day” on October 9.

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