Free swim program empowers Sisters students with life safety skills

SISTERS, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The Sisters Athletic Club recently completed its four-week third grade Learn to Swim program, providing essential swim instruction to 75 elementary school students in the Sisters community. The program, offered at no cost to participating families or taxpayers, equipped young swimmers with critical life safety skills and confidence in the water.

The Sisters Athletic Club made the program accessible to all students by covering more than 50% of the total program cost. School board member Asa Sarver's dedicated efforts secured a grant that offset the remaining expenses.

Tate Metcalf, owner of the Sisters Athletic Club, emphasized the program's significant community impact. "Teaching children to swim is one of the most impactful investments we can make in our community," Metcalf said. He also expressed gratitude to key figures. "We are grateful to Sarver, all of the teachers and Principal Megan Storey for making this program possible for every single student," Metcalf stated. Aquatics Director Rosie Horton and her team of swim instructors were also recognized for their skillful management of student abilities.

Metcalf further highlighted the critical safety aspect of swim instruction, noting its life-saving potential. "Drowning is a leading cause of accidental injury in children and access to swim instruction can be life-saving," Metcalf said. He expressed pride that the program could be provided to every third grader at no cost to families or taxpayers.

Storey, principal of Sisters Elementary School, shared her enthusiasm for the partnership and its positive outcomes. "We are incredibly grateful to Sisters Athletic Club for partnering with us to host the third grade swim program," Storey said. She observed substantial student development. "Throughout the program, we saw tremendous growth in students' swimming skills and confidence in the water, while also creating meaningful memories together," Storey added. Storey also underscored the local relevance of water safety in a community surrounded by lakes, rivers and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Principal Storey expressed hope that the program will continue for many years. "We are proud to provide this experience for our students and hope to continue the program for many years to come," Storey said.