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TUCSON - Pima County's Safe Routes to School Program aims at getting kids off of the couch and on to their bikes. Last week, Ignacio Rosales De Rivera taught one of the well known courses at Miles Elementary School. According to him, the classes cover more than just the basics.

"The kids learn to ride on the right hand side of the road. They learn to stop. To look both ways. It's essentially drivers ed but on bicycles for kids."

The program consists of two parts. The first teaches the students all the rules of the road, including local laws. The second, puts them all into practice.

"I want them to leave this excited to use the bicycle for fun, transportation, fitness, and have it as a daily part of their life," Ignacio continued.

Along with the two day event, the kids get to go home with a free helmet.
Miles Elementary School teacher, Sarah Clarkson, says the program benefits everyone.

"I think it's really important, especially in lieu of budget cuts, that programs like this really stick around because they do a great community service."

For more information on the program, head to http://bikeped.pima.gov/SafeRoutes.htm