Bikes at Waupaca Middle School library

By Robert Cloud

Students at Waupaca Middle School have an opportunity to exercise both their bodies and their minds at the same time.

They can read books at the school library while pedaling a stationary bike.

“More than 50 kids have signed onto the Read and Ride program,” said Sarah Hanneman, the WMS librarian.

Students can read and ride during their lunch recess. English teachers can also bring in their classes once per week.

Hanneman, who is also the cross country coach, understands the importance of physical activity.

“I want to get the kids active and moving around as well,” she said. “The kids sit all the time. Why not encourage a little bit of movement?”

Students riding the bikes are required to be reading at the same time.

Hanneman said she first learned about ride and read programs when reading an article about a district in North Carolina that put bikes into their library.

Waupaca Middle School now has a Read and Ride station at its library. Shown using the bikes are (from left) Alyssa Wege, Zoey Nielsen and Noah Gueths. Robert Cloud Photo

She tried unsuccessfully to obtain a grant, and then presented her idea to the WMS Parent-Teacher Group.

“They thought it was a great idea and purchased three bikes for us,” Hanneman said.

The bikes cost $150 each.

They arrived at the library in early November and were assembled immediately by the school custodian.

Hanneman noted the bikes are silent.

She also said she would like to have six to seven bikes in the library.