Q: Can parents, siblings, grandparents watch the lessons?

A: Yes.  But we do ask that all observers sit on bleachers or benches so that swimmers can focus on their teacher and their class.

Q: My child and I will be attending one of the parent and child classes.  Can both the mother and father be in the water with the child?

A: Due to full classes and limited space in the pool, there may not be room for both parents to accompany their child in the water.  Please only one parent per child in the water unless the instructor has determined there is enough room and has given your permission.  Parents may alternate who accompanies their child in the pool.

Q: Will I/my child know how to swim after taking the class?

A: Everyone is different and learns at different rates.  Most students repeat classes/levels, sometimes several times, in order to master the skills taught in that class.  See the Tips for Parents and Participants section for ways to help you or your child.

Q: How old do you have to be to take swim lessons?

A: Each class has its own age requirements; please see Class Descriptions for details.  Instructional lessons are available for children ages 6 months to 4 years with a parent, children ages 5 to 14 years, and for adults ages 15 and older.

Q: My child is an excellent swimmer and has taken lessons multiple times.  Can he/she enroll in the next level even though he/she does not meet the minimum age requirements?

A: No.  Students must meet the minimum age requirement for the class to enroll.  See the Class Descriptions section for age requirements for each class.

Q: Can I join a class that is full?

A: No.  The class size is firm due to the student-teacher ratio.

Q: Are there locker rooms, showers and lockers to use?

A: All pools have boy’s and girl’s locker rooms.  School age children and older must use gender appropriate locker rooms.  Showers are available for use.  Some lockers may be available for use; participants must provide their own lock.  Most participants bring their belongings into the pool area with them.  Community Ed is not responsible for lost or stolen articles.

Q: Can my group rent a pool for an event?

A: St. Paul Public Schools’ pools are available for groups and private parties to rent through Community Education. There are nine pools throughout the district including seven lap pools and two therapeutic pools. Pool rentals are for a minimum of two hours and include two American Red Cross lifeguards. Date, time, pool, and staff availability varies.  Please call 651-744-5094 for more information.