Highland Middle School (HMS) students are once again taking part in an exciting Physical Education (PE) bicycling unit, led by teachers Matthew Earley and Cathy Bowman. What began in 2020 with a grant that supplied the department with 36 mountain bikes has grown into a signature program that combines fitness, fun, and real-world skills.

Throughout the unit, students gain much more than riding practice. They learn how to clean, maintain, and safely operate their bikes, while also developing an understanding of road safety. The program emphasizes lifelong fitness, encouraging Huskies to stay active outside of school and showing them the many physical and mental health benefits of cycling.

To cap off the unit, students look forward to a memorable ride across the Walkway Over the Hudson. This culminating trip not only celebrates the skills they’ve gained but also gives them the chance to enjoy a unique and inspiring Hudson Valley landmark as a group.

The success of the program would not be possible without community support. The PE department extends tremendous gratitude to Bicycle Depot in New Paltz, which has provided ongoing maintenance and repair for the fleet of bikes. Thanks to this partnership, HMS students continue to put their skills in motion year after year.