Aquatics Director

Chuck Dunham

Phone: (518) 881-0460 

ext. 54582

For more information about the Aquatic Center click here

Aquatics Program

The Aquatics Program is a mandatory part of the Physical Education curriculum. This is based on NYSED guidance, NYS Physical Education State standards and curriculum, and National Physical Education Standards (SHAPE America). All students are expected to participate unless excused for documented and approved reasons.

Program Overview

The Goals of the Program are: 

• To enhance one’s swimming proficiency and confidence in the water.

• To instruct students on how to effectively react during an emergency situation.

• To obtain knowledge in various aquatic activities.

• To have fun.

Grade 3:

• Six lessons over three consecutive weeks

• Curriculum includes the American Red Cross Learn to Swim and Whales Tales Water Safety programs

Grades 6–8:

• Four-week unit (approximately 6 blocks/lessons)

• Scheduled between late fall and spring

Other Key Information: 

• All students are water-tested on the first day and placed according to skill level. 

• Certified Physical Education teachers provide instruction, and certified lifeguards are on duty at all times.

• At the middle school level, all classes will be homogeneously grouped, meaning only girls will use the pool at one time or vice versa.

• A more detailed description of the Shenendehowa Water Safety Curriculum can be found here.

Class Format

Elementary (40 minutes)

• 5 min change/shower

• 27 min instruction

• 8 min change

Middle School (60 minutes)

• 8 min change/shower

• 40–45 min instruction

• 10–12 min change

Students are expected to rinse off before and after swimming.

Required Attire & Items

Swimwear

• Girls: Swimsuit

• Boys: Swim trunks (no cut-offs, denim, or shorts)

• Optional: White/light-colored t-shirt

Bring Each Class

• Clean towel

• Some sort of bag for wet items

Optional

• Goggles (must not cover nose)

• Swim cap (long hair must be tied back or capped)

• Shower shoes, personal soap, and/or shampoo

• Personal locks for locker room/personal belongings (to be removed daily)

Personal hair dryers are not permitted. Drying units are available.

Locker Room & Expectations

• Lockers are for class use only; all belongings must go home daily.

• There are bathroom stalls in the locker room for those who wish to change in private

• Cell phones are strictly prohibited in locker rooms.

• Students must follow all pool rules and remain in assigned areas.

• The PE Department is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Students who wish to may bring a lock for use each day to be removed daily.

Participation & Grading

Grades are based on participation.

Exemptions:

• Exemptions are granted on a case-by-case basis and only for specific reasons, including documented medical or religious reasons.

• Documentation should be provided to the student’s counselor or nurse for review, teacher input, and possible approval by the administration.

• When the administration approves exemptions, counselors or nurses will notify PE teachers. 

• Students excused for the full unit will be provided with an alternate assignment for the Middle School Swim Unit, and an alternate location will be provided when appropriate or applicable.

• Students exempted for a single class will need to make up the missed class for credit (see below)

Middle School Make-Ups:

• Students who are absent unexcused frequently may need to make up PE classes.

• Students can make up the missed class for full credit during intramurals (8:00-8:40 a.m.), during the school day, or at another time agreed upon with their PE teacher.

• All make-ups must be completed by the end of the quarter.

For additional information, please contact your child’s Physical Education teacher.