New York State Parks: Nearly 1,500 students completed learn-to-swim classes this summer

20 state parks across state hosted free learn-to-swim lessons

Press Release

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation announced nearly 1,500 swimmers took advantage of free learn-to-swim lessons at state parks this summer, with 20 facilities hosting lessons across the state. The learn-to-swim program includes individual classes taught for all ages and levels, varying from swim lessons to water safety instruction.

New York State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “State Parks is proud to offer our learn-to-swim program that teaches a vital life skill and empowers kids and families to feel confident in the water. Through learn-to-swim and the governor’s NY SWIMS initiative, we are committed to providing access to safe public swimming options for all to enjoy. A special thanks to our lifeguards and staff for all their dedication and efforts, which has allowed more New Yorkers to continue to discover our amazing state pools and beaches.”

Recognizing that drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4, the learn-to-swim program helps more New Yorkers swim by providing free swim instruction to children and families with the goal or promoting water safety throughout the state. Through a partnership with the American Red Cross, state park lifeguards are provided free training to obtain water safety instructor certification. This support has allowed for the certification of 20 additional water safety instructors this season. Lifeguard staff who currently possess WSI certification also help provide more opportunities for swim lessons. The 2025 season saw swimming lesson programs at 20 state parks across the state this summer. 

“We congratulate New York State Parks on building an ecosystem of water safety through education and swim lessons,” said Kevin Coffey, regional CEO of the American Red Cross of Eastern New York. “Our community training providers are critical to the success of our aquatics centennial campaign and saving lives.”

The learn-to-swim program complements Gov. Kathy Hochul’s NY SWIMS initiative to expand access to safe swimming facilities for children and their families across the state, and her “Get Offline, Get Outside” campaign. Last year, Hochul introduced the Connect Kids to Swimming Instruction Transportation Grant. This program connects New York school-age children (pre-K through grade 12) with swimming instruction by reimbursing transportation costs incurred by eligible entities for travel to facilities in New York that are operated by state, municipal, and not-for-profit organizations, and offer swim instruction for a nationally recognized learn-to-swim curriculum such as the American Red Cross, YMCA or Starfish Aquatics.

Visit parks.ny.gov, download the free NY State Parks Explorer app or call 518-474-0456. Connect on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn or the OPRHP blog.