Second Graders Dive into Free Swim Lessons Through YMCA Partnership

A new partnership between Middletown City School District (MCSD) and the Middletown Area Family YMCA is making waves, starting with a class of second graders at Rosa Parks Elementary.

Thanks to the initiative of Missy Schleicher, Executive Director of the Middletown Area Family YMCA, Mr. Staton's second-grade class is now receiving free swim lessons at the YMCA. Schleicher proposed the idea to Superintendent Deborah Houser, who quickly embraced the opportunity to bring life-saving water safety education to MCSD students.

The pilot program not only teaches students how to swim but also equips them with essential water safety skills. For many of the children, this marks their first time in a pool, making the experience both exciting and empowering.

The district hopes to expand the program to additional classes and schools in the near future, giving more Middletown students the chance to learn vital skills that will benefit them for life.