In early 2023, Bingham Cyclery was asked to help Northwest Middle School purchase the bikes and gear needed to establish a fleet for 8th graders to ride.

We were able to source, build, and deliver the bikes in time for students to get a ride in before the end of the school year.

Says 8th Grade Science Teacher Dani Bainsmith, the force behind the program, “I'm trying to help build my students' identities in outdoor spaces, whether scientific or recreational. We have the Jordan River Parkway going right next to our school/through the community, but it's not often utilized by our families.” 

“I wanted a way to introduce students to that resource in an authentic context. We do naturalist activities along the parkway, like birding and participating in citizen science through iNaturlist and the Aviary's Birds and Beavers program, among others - and volunteering with the Jordan River Commission to do native tree plantings and wildflower seeding. The bikes will allow us to visit more of the parkway for these activities than we could just by walking.” 

“I also think that managed risk-taking builds confidence. Biking is a great way for them to push themselves mentally and physically and be proud of what they have accomplished. I hope to also see the bikes used on dirt trails if we can figure out how transportation would work.”