Biking to school may not be the most common way to commute, but for two teachers here at Georgetown Prep, it has become a regular part of their daily routine. Dr. Bruno and Dr. Hendren have both chosen biking as their way of transportation to work, and their stories show that biking offers more than just a way to get to school and back. It has become a way for them to stay healthy, reduce stress, and even better connect with their students. Both teachers find that biking is a great way to start their day, helping them clear their minds before they enter the classroom.

Dr. Bruno, who lives a mile and a half from the school, began biking to work in August. With only one car in his household, biking became the most practical choice for his daily commute.

“It’s much cheaper and better for the environment than driving,” he said.

His route takes him through the hilly streets of Garrett Park, where he faces some challenges, especially a tricky intersection where cars sometimes fail to give enough space to bikers. Despite these obstacles and tough weather, like snow or rain, Dr. Bruno remains committed to biking each day. He rides a Trek FX2, which he finds reliable, and has a pouch for gloves to handle the changing weather.

“It’s a light workout, and it really helps me clear my mind before school,” he shared. Dr. Hendren’s experience with biking is similar but with a few differences. He’s been biking to school for seven years, taking a break when his kids were younger. Now that they’re older, biking has become his preferred way to commute again. “Biking is way better than sitting in traffic,” he shared.

Dr. Hendren rides mostly on residential streets to avoid busy traffic but faces steep hills, especially on the way home. To help with these challenging hills, he rides an electric bike, which he finds both affordable and low-maintenance.

“The electric bike really helps with those hills,” he explained.

Dr. Hendren enjoys the mental clarity biking provides, helping him feel relaxed before the school day begins. He also feels that biking has made him a more respectful driver, understanding the challenges bikers face on the road.

Students often see Dr. Bruno and Dr. Hendren on their bikes, and it has sparked many conversations about biking.

“I hope it encourages my students to try biking too,” Dr. Hendren said.

Biking has not been without its challenges, though. Dr. Hendren has had a few close calls with cars, including two accidents, but fortunately, he was not seriously hurt. Both teachers agree that biking is about more than just transportation. It’s about staying healthy, connecting with students and friends, and setting a good example.

Dr. Bruno summed it up best when saying, “Biking is a great way to start the day and feel accomplished, no matter what the weather is like.”