LCI Pollyanna joined us this week. She gave instructions at the starting point while Doug and I watched and evaluated students at the other end.
The most complicated maneuver is the multi-step left turn: scan, signal, scan, merge to left position, stop signal, brake evenly at the limit line, scan left/right and give left turn signal, go according to right-of-way rules. Students are scored 0-3, then grouped for street rides by ability.

I always take the red group and we stay on the bike trail and park paths. This north Natomas neighborhood has a series of connected parks with many bike paths. I tell my group how lucky they are because we have more fun and ride more.

Each year, there are several students who have never ridden a bike before. And, after the first day of blacktop drills, many more are discovered who have forgotten HOW to ride a bike in a controlled and predictable way. Therefore, we offer two one-hour after-school coaching sessions. Some students sign up early and others are “invited” to participate.

A near-miss as they whizzed by:

Of the ten students who had never ridden, all learned how to ride. Only two did not reach a sufficient skill level to go the the street rides.

First day for Project Ride Smart at Natomas Elementary School.

This job lasts until November 4, M-F. However I leave at noon on Tu (Auburn Bike Club) and Th (Sierra Bike Club). Hectic schedule for a few weeks!
My LCI partner is Doug Williams. Five classes of 5th graders, about 150 students. About 10 had never ridden a bike before and were taught in two after-school coaching sessions. Three lessons in the classroom, two days of blacktop drills, and 2 days of riding in the community if minimum skill level was achieved.