Portlaoise school travel project is a first of its kind for Ireland News

The project aimed to develop a network of travel buddies to help students with special needs travel safely and independently around Portlaoise.

The Birth of WOW

The idea for WOW was born out of a desire to create a safe and supportive environment for students with special needs to travel independently. The project was led by a group of dedicated teachers and parents who recognized the importance of promoting independence and self-reliance in young people with special needs. By bringing together students and teachers from six local primary schools, the project aimed to create a sense of community and shared purpose.

The WOW Model

The WOW model is based on a simple yet effective approach. Students with special needs are paired with trained travel buddies who provide support and guidance throughout their journey. The travel buddies are trained to be patient, understanding, and supportive, and are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to help their peers navigate the community safely and independently.

Key Features of the WOW Model

Students with special needs are paired with trained travel buddies who provide support and guidance throughout their journey. The travel buddies are trained to be patient, understanding, and supportive. The WOW model emphasizes the importance of community and shared purpose. The model is flexible and adaptable, allowing for individualized support and accommodations. ### The Benefits of WOW

The Benefits of WOW

The WOW model has been shown to have a range of benefits for students with special needs.

“It’s not just about the kids, it’s about the whole community coming together to make a difference. “It’s a great way to raise awareness about the importance of reducing our carbon footprint and promoting sustainable living.”

The Origins of WOW Day

WOW Day, an initiative that encourages people to walk to school and work, has its roots in the United States. The idea was first introduced in 2005 by a group of students in California who were concerned about the environmental impact of their daily commutes. They organized a walk-to-school day, which was a huge success, and soon the idea spread to other parts of the country.

The Benefits of WOW Day

Reduces carbon emissions: By walking to school and work, individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint. Promotes physical activity: Walking is an excellent form of exercise that can improve overall health and well-being. Encourages community engagement: WOW Day brings people together, fostering a sense of community and social connection. Raises awareness about sustainability: The event highlights the importance of reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and promoting sustainable living. ## How to Participate in WOW Day

How to Participate in WOW Day

Find a walking buddy: Invite a friend, family member, or colleague to join you on your walk. Choose a route: Select a scenic route or a familiar path to make the experience enjoyable. Wear comfortable shoes: Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Bring a water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your walk. ## Laois County Council’s WOW Day Initiative

Laois County Council’s WOW Day Initiative

Laois County Council has launched its own WOW Day initiative, encouraging residents to walk to school and work.

The students came up with a plan to invite the local Santa Claus to visit their schools and participate in the town-wide WOW launch.

The Town-Wide WOW Launch

The town-wide WOW launch was a grand event that brought together students, teachers, and the community to celebrate the spirit of giving and kindness. The event was organized by a group of enthusiastic students from the four secondary schools around town.

The Planning Process

The planning process for the town-wide WOW launch was a collaborative effort involving students, teachers, and community members. The students from the four secondary schools came together to brainstorm ideas and share their expertise. They discussed various themes, such as environmental conservation, social justice, and community service, and decided to focus on kindness and generosity. Key themes: + Kindness and generosity + Environmental conservation + Social justice + Community service

The WOW Launch Event

The WOW launch event was a fun-filled day that included various activities and performances. The students organized a talent show, a bake sale, and a charity auction. The event was attended by students, teachers, and community members, who came together to celebrate the spirit of giving and kindness.

Activities and Performances

Talent show

Bake sale

Charity auction

Santa Stroll

Community service projects

The Santa Stroll

The Santa Stroll was a unique and festive activity that brought the community together.

The Green-Schools Travel Theme

The Green-Schools Travel theme is a program designed to promote sustainable travel practices among students and pupils. The program is part of the Green-Schools initiative, which focuses on environmental education and sustainability. The Green-Schools Travel theme is specifically tailored to encourage students to adopt environmentally friendly modes of transportation, such as walking, cycling, and carpooling.

Benefits of the Green-Schools Travel Theme

The Green-Schools Travel theme offers numerous benefits for students, schools, and the community. Some of the key advantages include:

Reduced carbon footprint: By promoting sustainable travel practices, students can significantly reduce their carbon footprint, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment. Improved physical and mental health: Regular physical activity, such as walking and cycling, can improve overall health and well-being. Enhanced social skills: Carpooling and other sustainable travel practices can foster social connections and a sense of community among students. Cost savings: By reducing the need for fuel and other resources, sustainable travel practices can lead to cost savings for families and schools. ### Proven Strategies

Proven Strategies

The Green-Schools Travel theme uses proven strategies to promote sustainable travel practices. Some of these strategies include:

School-based initiatives: Schools can implement various initiatives, such as bike-to-school programs, walking clubs, and carpooling schemes. Community engagement: The community can be engaged through events, campaigns, and education programs to promote sustainable travel practices. Parental involvement: Parents can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable travel practices by encouraging their children to use environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

Online forums connect schools with their communities, fostering a sense of belonging and collaboration.

The Power of Online Forums

Online forums have become an essential tool for schools to connect with their communities, foster a sense of belonging, and build relationships with parents and local stakeholders. In a recent interview, Karen Moore, the community climate action officer of Laois County Council, highlighted the significance of online forums in promoting community engagement and collaboration.

Benefits of Online Forums

Online forums offer numerous benefits for schools, including:

Improved communication: Online forums enable schools to communicate effectively with parents, students, and local stakeholders, promoting a sense of community and collaboration. Increased engagement: Online forums encourage active participation, allowing schools to engage with their communities in a more meaningful way. Access to expertise: Online forums provide schools with access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise, helping them to address complex issues and make informed decisions. ### Real-World Examples*

Real-World Examples

Several schools have successfully implemented online forums to promote community engagement and collaboration. For example:

The Laois County Council’s online forum: The Laois County Council’s online forum has been instrumental in promoting community engagement and collaboration among schools, parents, and local stakeholders.