Home / Education / Adult Learner Starts Swim Program for NYC Kids
Adult Learner Starts Swim Program for NYC Kids
24 Jun
Summary
- A Brooklyn principal initiated a swim program after learning to swim in her 40s.
- The program aims to provide students with swimming instruction unavailable during her childhood.
- The initiative addresses drowning statistics and aims to foster water safety and freedom.
A Brooklyn principal, Jamie Hendrickson, has launched a swim program for students after learning to swim in her early 40s. Inspired by her own lack of access to pools growing up in East New York, Hendrickson partnered with two colleagues to offer swimming instruction. The program utilizes the Meyer Levin School for the Performing Arts' renovated pool, providing lessons during and after school hours. This initiative aims to equip elementary and middle school students with essential water safety skills and confidence.
The program addresses concerning drowning statistics, which disproportionately affect Black youth under 30. Beyond safety, Hendrickson's goal is to foster a love for swimming and offer opportunities she didn't have. Students are responding positively, recognizing the unique chance to learn, with many expressing excitement about applying their new skills over the summer. Organizers hope to expand the program in the upcoming school year.
