Swimming lessons are in high demand because Juneau has a shortage lifeguards and instructors.
On Friday, the city’s parks & recreation department opened registration for a toddler and parent class. Terra Patterson, the aquatics manager of the city, said that 10 spots were taken within minutes.
She stated that a shortage in lifeguards has resulted in a shortage among swim instructors
She said that it was difficult to offer swimming lessons if many of your instructors are also lifeguards. “If there are no lifeguards on the pool deck, it’s impossible to put people in the water to instruct span>
Children of all ages were affected by this shortage and the closure of pools during the peak of the pandemic. Although the city provided a limited number, it was not sufficient to provide all the classes needed by the children.
Patterson stated that it is a complicated problem. It’s a complicated problem .”
Pool supervisors in the city are now certified to teach new lifeguards. This has helped reduce the pool staff shortage. Patterson stated that the pool sector is facing the same labor shortages as other city employers.
Patterson stated that getting children to feel comfortable in the water, especially in Southeast Alaska, is crucial.
She said that floatation is the first step in learning how to swim. “Floating is the first step in learning how to swim .”
Next month, the parks department will host a second class for parents and toddlers at Dimond Park Aquatic Center. The registration for this class will open February 16.
February 16th is also the opening date for class registrations for children three years old and older. These classes will take place at the Augustus Brown Swimming Pool.
From April to December, the Augustus Brown pool will be closed for renovations. These staff members will be moving to Dimond Park Aquatic Centre, which allows the city to offer lessons all year after school.
