Teacher Name: Todd Hagemeier
School: Westfield Middle School
My name is Todd Hagemeier. I have worked at Westfield Middle School which has been one of the most rewarding experiences in my life. Our district places emphasis on students being well rounded and lifelong learners. I am always on the lookout for ways to spark the interest of students and encourage them to exercise. Kids Riding Bikes was a PERFECT fit for our 7th and 8th grade wellness classes. The flexibility in schedule, equipment, and especially the staff were amazing to work with.
I first heard of Nine13 and Kids Riding Bikes when I was traveling overseas. I was waiting for my flight at the Indianapolis airport when i noted a table with pedals. It was a device charging station where the user pedals the bike pedals which allows their device to be charged. I of course had to try it out and put my waiting time to good use. I used my phone to find out more about this company and what they were all about. Within minutes of reading a few tweets and finding their website I knew when I returned home I would contact them to see about getting them to Westfield Middle School.
Kids Riding Bikes allowed each student in wellness classes as well as our adapted PE class to experience riding their bikes, learning about safety, competing against one another, and the importance of a cool down. Our students really enjoyed their time and hope they get to experience it again. The staff was punctual, communicated well with our staff and students, and went above and beyond by bringing in a recumbent bike and working with our special needs students. I am so happy this program is in existence and feel they have encouraged a lot of people to get out there on their bikes as a form of exercise.