MPS is inviting all runners and walkers to sign up for the 3rd Annual Run Back to School, a 5K fun run and 1.5 mile walk through Washington Park on Saturday, August 28 at 9:00 a.m. The goal is to promote the importance of regular exercise while raising funds for MPS youth sports programs. In addition to the run/walk, the event will feature a school mascot race, exhibit booths, activities for the kids, and a live DJ. The first 150 youth who register will each receive a free bike helmet courtesy of Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield (pending helmet sizing and availability). The public is encouraged to register online by clicking here.

The MPS Run Back to School will begin and end at Wick Playfield, 4929 W. Vliet Street. Pre-registration is preferred and encouraged, but a walk-up registration table will be open from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. the day of the run at Wick Playfield. The 5K fun run will start at 9:00 a.m. The 1.5 mile walk will start at 9:05 a.m. The fee, which includes a commemorative event t-shirt, race bag, and post-run refreshments, is $10 per adult and $5 per child. The adult fee will be $15 after August 13. Free parking is available at MPS Central Services, 5225 W. Vliet Street. First, second, and third place awards will be given to the top male/female adult and youth finishers for the 5K run.

The Run Back to School encompasses several key facets of the district’s Working Together, Achieving More strategic plan by engaging the community, fostering partnerships and supporting the wellness of MPS families, employees, and the community. The district also provides an Employee Wellness Program (Learn Good Health, Live Good Health), offers a variety of physical fitness programs, promotes balanced dietary choices, and actively participates in the Well City Milwaukee Initiative.

The 2010 Run Back to School is made possible with generous support from Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Wisconsin, Aetna, Aurora, CarePlus, Carewise, Concentra, Hays Companies of Wisconsin, ING, NVA, Trustmark Companies, United Healthcare, Stay Well Health Management, MetLife, Milwaukee County Parks, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, MilwaukeeMoms.com, WEA, and WFH.