Inclusive Swim
As a destination for community, we strive to ensure every member feels included. That’s why we’ve been taking the steps to expand our Adaptive Swim program.
NEW! American Sign Language (ASL) Swim Lessons
We’re proud to share that our staff of swim instructors now includes a select few fluent in American Sign Language. Taught in our standard group setting, American Red Cross Learn-to-Swim classes highlighted in blue on our schedule are being taught by ASL fluent instructors happy to incorporate sign language into their lessons. These classes remain open to all group lesson participants and those interested in the ASL component can share that with the instructor on the first day of lessons, or contact Aquatics Manager Dave Wage ahead of time.
Adaptive Aquatics
Designed for participants ages 4-18 years who identify as having a disability. Lessons are taught one-on-one with the instructor and focus on building comfort and proficiency in the water.
Recreation & Aquatics Coordinator, Kristen Schmalfeldt, and Special Needs Coordinator, Sarah McCutcheon, are both certified Swim Whisperers through the Swim Angelfish Adaptive Swim training program. The Adaptive Swim Whisperers® certification program teaches instructors how to assess and identify roadblocks for their pupils, and how to implement the correct strategy to overcome them.
This program accepts waivers. All lessons are ½ hour sessions scheduled once a week. Due to pool space, we may not be able to accommodate lessons Monday-Thursday 4:00 PM-6:00 PM. Lessons are scheduled based on instructor availability.
Adaptive (1 swimmer) and Co-adaptive (2 swimmers, siblings only) Lessons are available.
Looking to schedule a lesson or learn more?
Contact Kristen Schmalfeldt, Recreation & Aquatics Coordinator, at 414-967-8325.

"I am very proud of my child, he is proud of himself and I am extremely thankful to our coach who applied skills to not only to teach kids with special needs but also to see above their needs and focus on their strengths and potential."
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Through every age and stage, the JCC supports families and individuals throughout our community.

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