Evaluation is critical for a successful Safe Routes to School program. First, it provides a baseline understanding of what is happening in the community — how many children currently walk and bike and what the barriers are.
Then, evaluation guides the strategies that are used to create the safe routes and make sure the program is successful. Continued evaluation helps adjust the program and identify needs throughout the community.
There are several types of evaluation, such as walking audits of the route, observation of dismissal and in-class travel tallies. In Lawrence, parent surveys are conducted every fall and spring.