How One Teacher Found New Ways to Inspire Students Beyond the Classroom
When you step into Aaron Biggard’s classroom at Gladden Farms Elementary, it’s clear he’s right where he’s meant to be. “Every time I come to school, I’m reminded of why I do this,” Aaron told me. “It’s the satisfaction of having that one impact on a student, or more, that reminds me this is what I’m supposed to do.”
Teaching has been Aaron’s calling since he was young. A self-described lifelong learner, he always knew education would be his path. But in the fall of 2024, he added another role to his day, becoming the head coach of his schools afterschool Wheel Fun bike club. On Oct. 14, he begins his second year leading the program.
Saying Yes to Coaching
When the chance came to coach, Aaron didn’t hesitate. “I bike at home with my wife, casually, and I saw this as an opportunity I couldn’t pass up,” he said. What started as an extension of a personal hobby has grown into one of his favorite parts of the week. “The bike club is actually the fun part of it, to be honest with you. That’s where we get to go out and just kind of let loose a little bit. And I’m seeing a lot of improvement in the riders, it’s very exciting.”
Beyond the Bike
For Biggard, the club is about more than fitness. He sees it as another kind of classroom, one that builds skills students will carry long after the rides are over.
“Other than the exercise part of it, I think there’s some social skills there how to interact, support one another, how to build each other up. These kids are doing great at that. They’re also learning problem solving, how to navigate, how to manage. And they’re learning responsibility: checking air pressure, filling water packs, helping each other out.”
Progress with Every Ride
One rider in particular has shown what that growth can look like. “She’s not just new to mountain bikes, but you can tell she’s new to riding,” Biggard said. “I’m seeing a ton of growth in her as a person and as a rider. She’s not getting discouraged at all. She comes in each time with a positive attitude ‘I can do this.’ And just seeing that growth, she’s starting to get comfortable, taking on more challenges, and not letting it get her down.”
It’s the kind of transformation that shows the power of a supportive environment, positive attitude and a coach who believes in his students.
Looking Ahead
Even in its first year, Biggard saw how much the club resonated with students. Now, heading into year two, he believes the momentum will only build. “The level of engagement and interest has been excellent,” he said. “Based on the early results, I think this is going to be something we can sustain and hopefully grow.”
His hope is that the lessons extend beyond the after-school program. “Hopefully this creates not only lifelong learners and students, but lifelong cyclists,” Biggard said. “Something they can carry with them forever.”
Closing Reflection
In the classroom or on the trail, Biggard’s message is the same: with focus and support, students can go farther than they ever imagined.
About the Author
As Southern Arizona Regional Manager for Wheel Fun, Emilio Perez helps students discover their strength on and off the trail. His own childhood in a rural community shaped his belief in the power of bikes to spark imagination and confidence. Today, he carries that experience forward, working to ensure kids have the same opportunities to grow, connect and take on new challenges.
