By Mark Ross, PP&R Public Information Officer
Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R), in collaboration with Portland Public Schools (PPS), recently launched the ‘Schools to Pools,’ program, an initiative that offers free swimming lessons to PPS second graders. PPS is providing transportation to and from the pools, and Portland Parks & Recreation is supplying lifeguards, swim instructors, and pool space.
Initially, over 300 students from six schools will participate, with plans to expand the program to nearly 3,000 students across the district and establish it as a permanent offering. “This partnership will save lives,” says Commissioner Dan Ryan, who oversees PP&R. “The Schools to Pools program is an exciting investment in Portland’s children, and in our city’s future.”
Funded by the 2020 Parks Local Option Levy, Schools to Pools was inspired by Portland Parks & Recreation Director Adena Long, who championed a similar program while with the New York City Department of Parks & Recreation. Under Director Long’s guidance, PP&R Sports and Aquatic Manager Nancy Roth worked closely with PPS Senior Director of Athletics Marshall Haskins and other district leadership to finalize this exciting partnership.
“Learning to swim is vital for young people, and we’re proud to make beginner lessons available through this innovative partnership,” says Director Long. “I’ve long had my eye on establishing this cooperative effort with PPS, and then the pandemic upended our plans – until now. I’m so pleased we’re able to move forward with Schools to Pools and these free swim lessons, made possible both by the Parks Levy, and the vision and energy of our Portland Public Schools leadership.”
Schools to Pools is offered as an elective at PPS elementary schools currently able to take part in the initial winter and spring sessions. The winter session is scheduled for January 30th – March 19th, and the spring session is April 2nd – May 21st. Lessons will be held during school hours, for 30 minutes on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Matt Dishman Community Center Pool as well as two other Portland pools.
“Second grade is the perfect age. It is an ideal time for students to learn to swim, they are eager to learn, and have few inhibitions related to water,” says Senior Director Haskins. “Quite simply, swimming is a life skill, and it has the potential of saving kids’ lives and the lives of others.”