At Couch Collegiate Prep, a group of 3rd to 5th graders huddle around a bicycle, their hands smeared with grease as they work together to fix a broken chain. Their faces are focused, determined—not just because they are learning how to repair bikes, but because they know that soon, another student in Garland ISD will be riding this very bike, thanks to their hard work.
The Earn-A-Bike program started as a student club at Lyles Middle School, where kids gathered to learn the basics of bicycle repair. Former and current GISD staff started donating and it grew into Earn-A-Bike. With grants from the Garland Education Foundation they have the tools and parts they need to keep growing.
“It has been really special how the Garland ISD community has supported this program,” said Jack Murphy, one of the program’s founders.
The best part? The students don’t keep the bikes for themselves. Every bicycle they repaired is gifted to another student in need. This has helped them learn the joy of helping others.
So far, the Earn-A-Bike program has given away 24 bikes, with even more waiting to be donated. Each bike represents freedom, adventure, and even a boost to mental health. Murphy believes that riding a bicycle gives kids a sense of independence—something every child deserves to experience.
And for the young mechanics at Couch Collegiate Prep, there’s no greater reward than knowing that with every tightened bolt and patched tire, they’re not just fixing bikes—they’re changing lives.
NOTE: Couch Collegiate Prep happily accepts donations of used bicycles every Wednesday. Drop off at 4349 Waterhouse Blvd. in Garland during school hours.
