October 2, 2024, wasn’t just another day at Woods Charter. Sneakers hit the pavement, laughter filled the air, and a community came together one step at a time. National Walk to School Day turned into a memorable celebration of connection, togetherness, and just a little bit of early-morning exercise.
This marked the fourth year Woods families have participated in Walk to School Day, a tradition that began in the fall of 2021. Over the years the event has grown into something more than just a walk, it’s a testament to Woods’s commitment to building community.
Starting bright and early at Briar Chapel, a parade of students, teachers, parents, and a few dogs gathered to kick off the day. For most, the walk to school was a mile, but others went above and beyond. Every year, Principal Cotton Bryan starts his journey in the pre-dawn hours, walking 12 miles from his house, and posting updates to the Wood’s Facebook page along the way. His dedication over the years has inspired several families to do the same. One group of students, Ben Massengale, Hudson, and Rusher King, walked 14 miles to meet the group at Great Meadow Park. They even stopped at McDonald’s for breakfast.
“The most memorable part was pain, it hurt a lot,” said 6th grader Benjamin Massengale, “But I would do it again, it was a lot of fun.”
“Our students come from all over the Triangle and Triad,” Jessica Oliver, Director of Advancement, explained. With our school families so spread out, events like Walk to School Day give us the chance to come together and connect in ways we might not otherwise. It’s also a chance to step out of your comfort zone and do something different.”
That sense of connection was clear when the walkers finally arrived, there was a shared feeling of accomplishment in the air. Events, like Walk to School Day, remind the Woods community of the importance of connection and the joy that comes from simply walking side by side. Students who might never sit together at lunch had the chance to share stories and a little morning grogginess as they strolled toward the building.
Looking ahead, many are already thinking about next year’s Walk to School. Will it be bigger? Better? For now, though, October 2 will be remembered as the day the Woods Charter community took a collective step toward school and toward each other.
