Rooftop Pool Set to Reopen This Spring

By LUCAS VALENTINE April 1st, 2022

For years, Croton-Harmon High School's ability to educate and develop students into adults that have a bright and prosperous future outside of the classroom has been recognized in rankings, on both the state and national level. These high rankings require a dedicated and enthusiastic staff in addition to a student body that is eager to learn. Some may attribute these qualities to a tight knit community and a skilled administration, but it is much more than that. Croton-Harmon High School’s rooftop pool provides students and faculty with the ability to relax and unwind to an extent incomprehensible in other school districts. Whether it be a free period, a lunch break, or just before school, you can always see people enjoying the refreshing waters on top of the gymnasium roof. While there have been detractors, saying that it’s ‘too dangerous’ or ‘there should at least be a fence surrounding the roof’, but these individuals haven’t experienced the benefits of such an addition. Others are more neutral, such as superintendent Walker: “What pool?”

Along with the pool itself, the rooftop lounge area contains various amenities including a tiki bar, a seating area, a full waitstaff, and sometimes even live music. Although the cost of maintaining the pool is substantial - it accounts for about 45% of CHHS total budget - the school board and administrators are unanimous in support of it. Mr Maxam, CHHS’ assistant principal stated that “Other than the various fatalities that have resulted from the pool, I think it does wonders for school morale!” Efforts to keep costs in check are being made: the pool does not have an active lifeguard, instead opting for various pool floats and noodles surrounding the pool. Currently the pool runs on a water recycling system with all excess water within the school, for instance water from fountains or sinks that goes down drains, being transported up to the basin on the rooftop.

This fun and relaxing environment upon the gymnasium roof is very popular among faculty and students. One senior commented that “The pool is great, I can always go up there if I need a break from the stressors of school and impending college decisions…this is off the record, right?”