Elementary and middle schools around Vienna took part in International Walk to School Day, during which thousands of local schoolchildren opted out of their daily school bus ride to hit the sidewalk in the fog.

"Despite the damp conditions, the students arrived at school with smiles in their faces, ready to start the day," said Beth Eachus, PTA president for Marshall Road Elementary. 

Ten schools in Vienna participated this morning: Cunningham Park, Flint Hill, Louise Archer, Marshall Road, Vienna, Westbriar and Wolftrap elementary schools, Kilmer and Thoreau middle schools and Our Lady of Good Counsel School.

The goal of the 12th annual event is to raise awareness about safer routes for walking and bicycling to school, traffic congestion, pedestrian safety and increased activity for kids, according to the sponsoring organization, Partnership for a Walkable America. Bicyclists were also invited to join in on the day's fun.

"This was the quietest Kiss and Ride that we have had so far this year," Principal Jennifer Heiges of Marshall Road Elementary said. "It was wonderful to see so many students walking to school."

Do you have photos from this morning's celebration of Walk to School Day? Email Nicole.Trifone@patch.com or add the photos yourself by clicking the "Upload Photos and Videos" tab underneath the gallery. 

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