Happy Trails to Them

Pottstown Middle School teacher Perry Augustine, rear, took students on a bike tour of the Schuylkill River Trail.

Blogger's Note: FOB John Armato is at it again! Please find below his latest submission. (You can submit posts to The Digital Notebook as well. Just e-mail ebrandt@pottsmerc.com and our friendly and courteous staff will happily review your submission for possible publication.)

Their trip began in Pottstown's Riverfront Park, a trail head.

Pottstown Middle School students had the opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Schuylkill River Trail recently  and learn many interesting facts about the environment.

The tour was done from the seat of their bicycles as they peddled the trail during the middle school’s “Bike Day” field trip organized teacher Perry Augustine.

The day began with a presentation about trail wildlife and history by Robert Folwell of the Schuylkill River National and State Heritage Area.

Savanna Pulcher and Br'anna Williams enjoy the
scenery on a trail bridge over the river and a break
from peddling

Before taking off on their adventure, middle school teacher Terry Niemann instructed the students about bike safety and trail riding etiquette.

Students, faculty, and parent volunteers then rode the scenic and picturesque Schuylkill River Trail to Birdsboro and back.

As the students rode the trail, they were able to observe various forms of wildlife and developed a better understanding of concepts they have talked about in science class.

Ernest McCalvin prepares his bike for the trip

As an added benefit, the event proved to be a healthy, fun alternative to the everyday classroom routine.

Students were accompanied by middle school staff members Annmarie Gruenling and Teresa Niemann, along with parent volunteers Mr. Camacho and Mrs. Lineman.

Mr. Augustine noted, “Our students today had an outstanding opportunity to learn about the environment while at the same time enjoying the relaxation and pleasure that the scenic, picturesque Schuylkill River Trail provides.

A special thank you to Mr. John DiRenzo of Tri County Bicycles for providing bike accessories which were used as prizes throughout the day for student achievement.”