First you crawl, then walk, then discover the freedom that the bicycle affords and, once you learn to drive, you rely on your car for 95% of your commuting needs for the rest of your life. That's the American model, and it's precisely what the Bethel Bike Consortium is fighting against.

The Consortium is composed of staff and students of the Bethel School District in Eugene, Oregon. Centered around Tim Goss's simple Bike Consortium blog page, the group works to encourage bike commuting to the area's schools. The adult staff serve as mentors and prove that bicycling as a means of transport doesn't need to end at age 16.

The blog offers everything from bicycle safety tips to a look at the politics and environmental ramifications involved in urban planning, transportation spending, road design, etc. By linking to stories from around the globe while giving the local bike commuters a voice, the Bike Consortium provides inspiration for the kids and shows that they're part of a larger, global community.

The Bethel School District consists of twelve schools, covering kindergarten through high school. The district's motto, “Together we will reach, teach and inspire each student to excellence,” fits well with the Consortium's mission to encourage students to consider alternative transportation methods.

Thanks to Eleanor Keeler – 7th & 8th grade teacher and avid bike commuter – for the tip!

Photos via flickr by functoruser & by BikePortland.org.

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