“I’m doing it! I’m doing it,” shouted second grader Isabella G., as she rode her bicycle without training wheels for the first time.
Isabella is part of the bike club at Bishop Arts STEAM Academy and has been participating in it for a few years.
Her achievement reflects the heart of the club, which has been empowering students and strengthening community ties for the past four years.
The club began when an organization donated bikes to all second graders, revealing a surprising reality: many students had never ridden a bike before. Recognizing the need, principal Ruth Roman-Meza, and coach Eric Benson launched the Bike Club.
“With the school located in an area that wasn’t initially bike-friendly, we knew we had to create an opportunity for our students, and that’s how Bike Club started,” said Roman.
Each Saturday, weather permitting, school staff and volunteers transform the parking lot into a bicycle course where students of all skill levels can ride safely.
“We provide a safe environment where they can practice, build confidence, and learn to obey traffic rules,” said Benson.
Before riding, students participate in safety lessons covering traffic signals, pedestrian awareness, and obstacle navigation. Parents also recognize the benefits.
One parent, Mr. Reidy, appreciates how the program helps his daughter become more attentive and self-assured. “I think the biggest benefit is that my daughter is learning safety skills when riding her bike. She is mindful and aware of cars and her surroundings.”
Participation in the Bike Club is a privilege that students take seriously. Teachers have seen its impact firsthand, as students work to improve their attendance and classroom performance to remain in the program.
Beyond student success, the club fosters a strong sense of community, with parents and staff members joining rides or helping with organizing the club.
“We have custodians, teachers, and parents come together to make sure every child who wants to ride has the chance,” Roman said. “On Bike Club days, I’m not their principal—I’m their bike teacher.”
For students who don’t have a bike or helmet, the school community steps in through PTA support, donations, and even contributions from team members to ensure every child has the opportunity to ride.
“Seeing families engaged and having the community come together makes it even more special,” said Benson.
In addition to on-campus rides, club members occasionally take field trips to explore new bike routes and visit local landmarks, such as a bookstore for story time or a nearby church where parishioners offer popsicles. The club has also proudly represented the school in community parades like Mardi Gras and Cinco de Mayo.
For Isabella and many others, Bike Club is about more than just learning to ride—it’s about growth, belonging, and the joy of the journey.
