Indy Standard

Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS) will launch a new K–12 swimming program this October, aiming to provide students with essential water safety skills and promote overall wellness. The initiative, supported by a $40,000 grant from Riley Children’s Health through the IPS Foundation, is expected to serve more than 1,000 students in its first year.

The program will use district pools and collaborate with local partners such as the Riviera Club, IU Natatorium, and Indy Parks. Elementary students will participate through these partnerships, while middle schoolers can attend both during the school day and on Saturdays. High school students will have swimming incorporated into their physical education curriculum. IPS operates two pools that will be used for this effort.

“Learning to swim is more than just a fun activity—it’s a vital life-saving skill that builds confidence, encourages healthy development, and gives children opportunities to be active and social,” said Stephannie Bailey, IPS Foundation chief executive officer. “Our partners are helping make this program a reality, giving IPS students the chance to gain these important skills while staying safe in and around water.”

The initiative targets students from high-risk ZIP codes and those from economically underresourced backgrounds to ensure equitable access. In addition to safety training, the program promotes physical activity and family engagement through community swim events.

With an aim for 80% of participants to reach basic swimming proficiency, IPS hopes the effort will equip students with critical life skills beyond academics. Kathy Langdon, physical education and health coordinator for the district, emphasized: “This is just the beginning of something incredible for our students,” she said.  “Step by step, we are opening the door for more students to gain swimming skills that build confidence, promote safety, and create lifelong opportunities. I couldn’t be more excited to see this come to life in our district.”

The upcoming launch follows a pilot conducted last year at Shortridge High School with support from the Riviera Club. The pilot involved 43 students; among them, 76% reported increased confidence in water activities, 84% participated consistently throughout the program period, and nearly half achieved competency in water skills.