Several schools in Winnipeg are taking aim at attendance rates and tardiness by offering a walking school bus.
Each morning, designated adults walk students to school, picking up kids along the way.
Salisbury Morse Place School in East Kildonan offers the service, facilitated by staff member Maura Enns.
"Our goal is to get them here safe - and on time - everyday. Monday to Friday,” Enns said.
Enn’s husband Dave volunteers to keep things in line, at the back of the bus. The couple also teach the students to respect other people’s property and the rules of the road.
The initiative is one way the school is working to boost attendance rates, ensure safety and promote community.
"Attendance has increased. Feedback from the community has been very positive,” SMP vice-principal Chris Chartier said.
The walking school bus runs rain or shine and, for now, only in the mornings.
The school is assessing the success of the program, to see if it will walk on in the 2014-2015 school year.
