Free Swim Lessons, Water Safety Education for Second Graders at Aquatic Center

The Hermiston Family Aquatic Center is hosting more than 350 students from all five elementary schools this week as part of the annual Second Grade Swim Lessons in partnership with the Hermiston School District.

Parks & Recreation lifeguards and swim instructors are teaming up with PE teachers and support staff to instruct the students on swim basics. The two-hour introductory swim lesson includes water safety skills, floating techniques, life jacket fitting and safety, and diving board jumps and stroke lessons for advanced swimmers.

Students are placed in groups based on parent evaluations and swim instructors provide a skill assessment at the end of the lessons.

“We are excited to partner with the Hermiston School District again to provide these lessons in anticipation for a safe swim season this summer,” said Hermiston Parks & Recreation Director Brandon Artz. “These lessons and evaluations give parents the knowledge of what their child is capable of doing in calm, warm water. Parents are also provided water safety information courtesy of the Hermiston Drowning Prevention program.”

The Hermiston Kiwanis Club provided goggles and sunscreen to all swimmers, as well as additional swim gear for those in need. The next lessons are May 25, May 31, and June 1 at 8:30 a.m.