Thiele demonstrated right hand, left hand, and stop hand signals. Students practiced the hand signal skills and donned a bike safety helmet before they eagerly rode the outdoor bicycle obstacle course.
Riding the course was something Braeden Broitzman, Mathew Butler and Michael Dobberstein successfully achieved.
"I like riding bike," Broitzman said.
"It's good to know the safety rules," said Butler.
"I learned safety signals in third grade," Dobberstein proudly stated.
"Students need to be aware of the hazards. This bike safety program and rodeo is an all over refresher;" said Pam Coyer, NRHEG Elementary paraeducator .
In addition to teaching bike safety, the Steele County Sheriff and deputies came bearing gifts. They had a trailer filled with bike helmets to be awarded to a dozen enthusiastic kids in every fourth through sixth-grade NRHEG classroom.
"Sports River and Fitness provided the helmets at cost, allowing the grant dollars to go further," Thiele said.
"All the kids need to learn bike safety and etiquette. It's important that everybody is on the same page," said Duey Ferber, NRHEG fifth-grade teacher. "I think it makes wearing helmets more acceptable, especially when the students see all the officers wearing helmets," Ferber added.
"I hope I win a helmet," said Katlyn Olsen with a wide smile.
"They're kind of cool," Carma Pederson said.
As our lawns turn a rich Minnesota green and flowers begin to blossom, our children fearlessly ride their bikes. Protect them with a helmet, teach them bicycle safety, and save a life, as they take to the streets in communities everywhere.
