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Pilot swim program welcomes newcomers to our community

February 27, 2020

SwimPrg1.jpgNewcomers to Canada face many barriers when they work to navigate and establish themselves in their new country. A key value of the St. James-Assiniboia School Division (SJASD) is respect for each other, our diversity, and our community. Both in response to feedback from the community and the existing mandates of the Division, we are delighted to announce the launch of a Newcomer Swim pilot program in partnership with Fluid Motion. Families new to Canada who are non-swimmers with children attending SJASD in Grades 4 to 12 can register for free swim lessons starting in April 2020.

​“Living where we do, with lakes and rivers all around us, water safety is an essential life skill for our students," explained Nicole Bowering, St. James-Assiniboia School Division Trustee and Chair of the Community Engagement Committee. “Many newcomers have come to Canada from areas where water safety may be completely unknown.  Learning these skills helps our newcomer students safely enjoy more of the wonderful opportunities in our community and province."

SwimPrg2.jpg“The St. James-Assiniboia School Division is excited to advance its partnership with Fluid Motion as we continue to strive to meet the needs of our community," said Mike Wake, Acting Superintendent. “All students currently attending the SJASD participate in the swim program in Grade 3. The partnership with Fluid Motion is an SJASD Board initiative that represents a commitment to ensuring our newcomer students get the same opportunities as afforded to current students."

​Classes will take place at the St. James Assiniboia Centennial Pool and Fitness Centre at 644 Parkdale St. Lessons from 4:00 – 4:45 p.m. and 4:45 p.m. – 5:30 p.m., and will be held on:

  • April 18 and 25
  • May 2, 9, 23 and 30 (not May 16 due to holiday weekend)

“The important life skills learned in this program not only teach water safety but could potentially save lives," said Bowering. “As a board, we are always listening to concerns and identifying needs within the community.  Once we see a need, we respond quickly to address it, ensuring our students have the best quality and most well-rounded education possible."

How to sign up

SwimPrg3.jpg

Register with Fluid Motion by mailing them at info@fluidmotion.ca, or calling (204) 888-3861, and let them know that you wish to sign up your family for the Newcomer Swim Program.

Early Registration ends Friday, March 13.

Note: After March 13, space may be limited as the class is capped to the first 30 participants to register.

Questions

For more information regarding the program, contact JJ Ross at jj.ross@sjasd.ca.