Thornton Elementary School is one of about three dozen schools in Rhode Island that are scheduled to participate in the International Walk to School campaign on Oct. 5, which is being coordinated by the Audubon Society of Rhode Island.

According to the International Walk to School website, the effort began in Chicago, IL, in 1997, inspired by a similar effort in England. By 2002, groups in all 50 states were participating in the campaign.

Concerns about childhood obesity, the environment, and neigborhood safety are among the reasons that communities participate in the event. Follow the links above for more information.