SD60 purchases three tricycles for students with additional needs

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The local school district has purchased new tricycles for students with additional needs. 

School District 60’s (SD60) occupational therapist Daisy Petrucci said the three-wheeled bikes, from the brands Discovery, Rifton and Trivel, would help students who require extra physical support for balance and coordination.

“We’ve had quite a few students using bikes who have never been able to be on a bike before because of the supports around balance and steering,” said Petrucci. 

During SD60’s June 16th meeting, Petrucci and Christine Taylor, the district principal of inclusion education, presented one of the Rifton bikes purchased by the district. 

The tricycles cost around $6,000 and can be used by kindergarten to grade six students. 

“It’s pretty accessible and very easy to use it,” said Petrucci. 

The district covers half of the bike costs, while the Variety School Grant Program with Variety—The Children’s Charity of BC covers the rest. 

Each school can receive grants up to $10,000 annually for inclusive and accessible upgrades. 

The district currently has 13 bikes used by 34 students at eight of its schools.  

In a June 23rd announcement, the district thanked the Variety school program for its financial help.

The trikes can help students with physical disabilities, chronic health issues, autism and more. 

Petrucci said the district plans to buy more bikes next year if more grants are received.