Educators hope that new sensory walks in Butler elementary schools will help distracted students get some extra energy out as they move through the schools.

The idea was hatched by Deann Pry, an autistic-support teacher at Emily Brittain Elementary. Years ago, she brought the concept of a sensory room to the school district.

At Emily Brittain, the old sensory room known as the “Space Place” now is complemented by a space-themed sensory walk in a hallway. Similar walks are being installed at other elementary schools before classes begin.

The walks are little paths constructed using colorful decals on the floors and walls of the school. They feature instructions, such as tiptoe walking and wall push-ups.

Pry started the school's autistic support program. She said the sensory tools are a great aid in her teaching.

“A lot of times during the day our students need some breaks,” Pry said. “This is a great way to fill all their sensory needs.”

At Emily Brittain, the walk is in a hallway with two special education and three kindergarten classrooms near the front of the school.

Cassandra Pencek, Emily Brittain's new principal, said she was excited to see students using the sensory walk to burn off extra energy.

Pry installed them on Monday, she said, with help from custodial staff. They removed wax from the floor for their installation and then reapplied it, as the stickers' instruction specified. They should last about four years.