Free Swim Lessons for Lawrence Students Offered Through Innovative Program

Lawrence students are getting a unique opportunity to learn how to swim through an innovative program called "Operation Water Safety". The program, started by the MSD of Lawrence Townships, aims to provide hands-on water safety training to kids who may not have had access to swimming lessons before.

Lawrence Township fourth grader Jahmir Breedlove said he's excited to be learning how to swim. "We're learning how to be strong swimmers," he said.

The program is designed to give students more than just safety instruction - it also helps them enjoy the water. According to Matthew Moen, the district's aquatic director, "It not only does the water safety piece, but we spend the last 5 to 10 minutes just letting them have fun and enjoy the water."

Moore came up with the idea nearly six years ago with the school's superintendent, recognizing that access was a major barrier for many students. "There are tons of these kids that haven't been near a pool or don't have a good relationship with the pool," he said. "So they're coming here during school day for free. It doesn’t cost them a dime. We’ve got extra suits if they don’t have suits, or they don’t have towels, we take care of that."

Students say the experience is both fun and valuable. "I think it's really cool, and it's really fun," said Taryah Humphrey. "I think it's really fun too, and it’s a lot of practice," added Ariyah Allen.

The program is designed to introduce students to water in a safe and supportive environment, with the goal of creating a comfort level that will encourage them to continue learning how to swim. Moen said, "You’re not going to learn to swim per se in 2 days, but it really creates a nice springboard into further bringing them back to the pool, creating a comfort level."

The program is unique across Indiana, with all 1,100 fourth graders in the district participating in swim lessons through December. The students are bused to Lawrence Central and Lawrence North High Schools, where Lawrence Swim team staff teach each session.