In the Spring of 2025, Keep Middlesex Moving launched its first All Abilities Bike Camp in partnership with Future Foundations Academy, part of the Educational Services Commission of New Jersey. The program reflects a shared commitment to expanding mobility, independence, and access for all students.
Held in Piscataway, the ten-session camp began in late March and was led by staff Chris Gonda and Isabella Gonzalez, with support from paraprofessionals. Using the All Kids Bike curriculum from the Strider Education Foundation, students learned through a balance bike approach designed to build confidence and foundational skills.
The pilot program focused on neurodivergent students selected by Vice Principal John Taylor, with priority given to those facing financial or scheduling barriers. Over two weeks, students participated in structured, one-hour sessions, with makeup opportunities available to ensure consistent progress.
Seven of the eight participants had never ridden a bike before. By the end of the program, most showed significant improvement in both skill and confidence. Staff and families noted meaningful growth, with one parent sharing that the program succeeded where years of attempts had not.
Beyond instruction, KMM conducted pre-and post-program assessments and developed a report evaluating outcomes. The results highlight the importance of strong school partnerships and individualized support in creating successful, inclusive programs.
Following the pilot’s success, the Strider Education Foundation awarded a second grant to expand the program this summer. The second camp took place at East Brunswick Adaptive Recreation Daisy Day Camp, where ten (10) students ranging in age from 8-16 participated in ten one-hour learn to ride sessions.
Keep Middlesex Moving wishes to thank the Strider Education Foundation, the North Jersey Transportation Planning Authority, and the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s Safe Routes to School Program for their support.
For more information about inclusive mobility programs, contact programs at kmm.org.