Too young to drive, some mid-valley students are chauffeured to school by one of their parents. But others are not so lucky, and also can't or don't want to ride the bus. These are the kids that grown-up commuters see hoofing to school these winter mornings, often dressed way too light for the early-morning temperature.

Maybe they don't have any coats. Maybe they would rather freeze than wear one. And maybe they see themselves out the door in the morning without grownup supervision. In any case, they merit recognition for getting to school under their own power.

Commuters also have had occasion to observe a few middle schoolers as they ride their BMX bikes through the early dawn.

More power to all those intrepid youngsters on their way to class.

May they prosper and otherwise do well as they grow up - thanks to the hardship they endure, and the dangers they evade, on their cold morning walks and rides to school. (hh)