Student swimming with an instructor at the Y in Black Mountain.

As many students head to the pool, lake or beach this summer, a group of Black Mountain Primary School (BMP) students know a little more about water safety thanks to a lifesaving program. 

The Black Mountain YMCA offers a variety of aquatic lessons from swim lessons to water safety. BMP partnered with the local organization to provide second grade students with a water safety course; the week-long program focused on ways to be safe both in and out of the water. 

“I strongly believe that if it saves one child’s life from drowning it is worth every minute spent,” said BMP Principal Kelly Owen. “Students who were scared to be in the pool at the beginning of the week were jumping in on the last day of the class. We saw our students’ confidence grow around the water.” 

Ms. Owen said she is looking forward to making this an experience for all future second graders at BMP. 

“The partnership with the Black Mountain YMCA is another reminder of what an amazing community Black Mountain is,” she said. “By working together as a team we are able to support and grow our students.”

Unique partnerships like this help students grow and thrive both in and out of the classroom!

Student practicing the skills learned at the water safety class.