Southern Regional Aquatic Wellness Center
SRAWC - Annual Aquatics Pre-Service Training
SOUTHERN REGIONAL AQUATIC WELLNESS CENTER WILL CLOSE SUNDAY, MAY 18, 2025
All PGParks Aquatic Facilities will close May 18 for our Annual Aquatics Pre-Service Training. We will re-open May 19 at our normal operating hours.
Amenities
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Indoor Pool
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Lockers
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Parking Lot
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Restrooms & Comfort Stations
Rentals
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Indoor Swimming Pool
Amenities
The Southern Regional Aquatic Wellness Center will offer a lap pool, warm water pool, and spa surrounded by a public art installation of beautiful fall leaves.
| Locker room | Multipurpose Room | Pool |
| Restrooms | Changing Rooms | Adult Size changing table |
Hours Of Operation
The times listed below are when the pool is open for all members of the public for recreational usage, for example lap swimming and fitness/exercise. Any time not listed below are times when the pool or sections of the pool are reserved for activities/rentals.
| Days | Facility/Building | Main/Lap Pool | Warm Water Pool |
| Monday | 6 am – 9 pm | 6 am-5 pm: General/Family Swim 8 pm-9 pm: General/Family Swim | 6 am-11 am: General/Family Swim 12 noon-9 pm: General/Family Swim |
| Tuesday | 6 am – 9 pm | 6 am-10:30 am: General/Family Swim 1 pm-5 pm: General/Family Swim 8 pm-9 pm: General/Family Swim | 6 am-5 pm: General swim 8 pm-9 pm: General/Family Swim |
| Wednesday | 6 am – 9 pm | 6 am-10:30 am: General/Family Swim 1 pm-5 pm: General/Family Swim 8 pm-9 pm: General/Family Swim | 6 am-11 am: General/Family Swim 12 noon-9 pm: General/Family Swim |
| Thursday | 6 am – 9 pm | 6 am-10:30 am: General/Family Swim 1 pm-5 pm: General/Family Swim 8 pm-9 pm: General/Family Swim | 6 am-2 pm: General/Family Swim 3 pm-5 pm: General/Family Swim 8 pm-9 pm: General/Family Swim |
| Friday | 6 am – 9 pm | 6 am-9 pm: General/Family Swim | 6 am-9 pm: General/Family Swim |
| Saturday | 12 noon – 5 pm | 12 noon-5 pm: General/Family Swim | 12 noon-5 pm: General/Family Swim |
| Sunday | 12 noon – 5 pm | 12 noon-5 pm: General/Family Swim | 12 noon-5 pm: General/Family Swim |
This schedule is subject to change as programs or rentals are added throughout the season.
Spa is available during Facility/Building hours
General Swim includes 2 lap lanes, shallow water and deep water open area, to be used for water walking, fitness and general exercise.
The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County has immediate openings for Lifeguards.
Looking for a fun and exciting job? Consider a position with the Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation Aquatics team.
Get Certified
M-NCPPC offers FREE* Lifeguard Training to prospective employees. Sign up for a Lifeguard Pre-Test today for only $10. M-NCPPC even offers Lifeguard Prep Swim Lessons for those who need to improve their swimming skills to help pass the Lifeguarding Pre-Test.
*If a participant takes a Department Lifeguarding class, does not pass, does not apply and/or get hired by M-NCPPC, they will have to pay the course fees.
Apply
Applicants must be 15 years of age to work for M-NCPPC. All you need to get started is a great work attitude and a completed Aquatics Employment Application. Search online for the positions listed below for which you are qualified. Please note that not all positions are advertised year-round.
Positions
- Assistant Pool Manager (Must be at least 18 years of age) – Earn up to $23.15 per hour
- Lifeguard – Earn up to $20.26 per hour
- Pool Manager (Must be at least 21 years of age) – Earn up to $25.47 per hour
- Shallow Water Lifeguard (Glenn Dale Splash Park/summer only) – Earn up to $18.75 per hour
- Swim Coach – Earn up to $26.00 per hour
- Swim Lesson Aide – Earn up to $21.42 per hour
- Swim Lesson Instructor – Earn up to $25.47 per hour
- Water Fitness Instructor (salary will depend on certification and experience)
Benefits
M-NCPPC offers great benefits including:
- Flexible schedules
- Free uniforms
- On-site supervisors
- Paid training
- Year-round jobs and promotions
Certified Pool Operator Training
The Pool & Hot Tub Alliance® Certified Pool & Spa Operator (CPO) Certification program provides individuals with the basic knowledge, techniques, and skills of pool and spa operations. Participants must be 16 years of age in order to participate in this course, attend all course sessions and pass the final exam to be issued a CPO Certification. To view class offerings and to register, visit PARKS DIRECT.
Blended Learning Format
Part 1: Pool Operator Primer Prerequisite
- This is the first step to earning the CPO Certification, and prerequisite for the Pool Operator Fusion training, using the blended format training course.
- The online curriculum consists of 8 lessons that cover all 18 chapters in the included Pool & Spa Operator Handbook.
- The online Pool Operator Primer takes between 8-14 hours to complete.
Part 2: Pool Operator Fusion
- Once you have completed the Pool Operator Primer, you will attend an 8-hour (two, 4 hour) Virtual Classroom Sessions led by a PHTA Certified Pool & Spa Operator Instructor online in Microsoft Teams.
- Minimum 37 points (74%) on the CPO certification online exam.
Additional Information
Candidates must be visible on webcam the entire time while taking the exam. Phones are not recommended for taking the exam because the small screen size may make it difficult to read the text questions. If necessary, the candidate may use one device for providing webcam capability (phone, tablet) while using another device to take the exam. Candidates will need to show or send the Instructor a photo identification at the beginning of the virtual classroom session. To view class offerings and to register, visit PARKS DIRECT. Please call 301-446-6896 or click here to email us if you have questions.
Lifeguard Training
FREE Lifeguard Training is available for candidates who successfully complete/meet the following pre-employment requirements:
- Candidates must be at least 15 years of age to work for the Department.
- Complete an online application via this job posting. Apply for a Lifeguard position.
- Candidates can interview with a Facility Manager at one of the hiring facilities listed above.
- Complete the required American Red Cross Precourse Skills assessment which includes successfully demonstrating the below skills:
- Swim 300 yards continuously, demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing.
- Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs (hands placed across chest under armpits)
- Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds.
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards then surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7-10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.
- Surface and swim 20 yards on back, with both hands holding the object.
- Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
- Commit to working for the Department of Parks and Recreation at one of the hiring facilities listed above.
Once candidates complete/meet the pre-employment requirements, they will be assigned to an American Red Cross Lifeguarding course offered at one of our department aquatic facilities within 1-2 weeks of the interview.
The Department of Parks and Recreation is an American Red Cross Training Provider. To view class offerings and to register, visit the PARKS DIRECT.
Lifeguard Prep Swim Lessons (Ages 15 & Up)
Interested in taking the Lifeguarding Training course, but need more practice? Register for these swim prep swim lessons that focus on stroke development and endurance and help prepare swimmers for the Lifeguard Pre-Test. To view class offerings and to register, visit the PARKS DIRECT.
Requirements
- Participants must be comfortable in deep water and be able to swim at least 100 yards of continuously using front crawl and/or breaststroke.
- Participants in the course must have an application on file with Facility Director prior to taking this course.
- Participants must also commit to working for a M-NCPPC pool for the upcoming pool season.
- Must be at least 15 years old.
Lifeguard Training (Ages 15 & Up)
The purpose of the American Red Cross Lifeguarding course is to provide entry-level lifeguard participants with the knowledge and skills to prevent, recognize, and respond to aquatic emergencies and to provide care for breathing and cardiac emergencies, injuries and sudden illnesses until Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel take over. This course is offering as an blended learning course with interactive eLearning modules and instructor led sessions. Register for the Lifeguard Pre-Test first, once you pass the pre-test then you would register for the Lifeguard Training course. To view class offerings and to register, visit the PARKS DIRECT.
Requirements
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Participants must have previously passed the Lifeguard Pre-test that is listed below (both pre-test and course must be taken at the same facility).
Lifeguard Pre-Test (Ages 15 & Up)
This pre-test is necessary for the Lifeguard Training course (both pre-test and course must be taken at the same facility). Register for the pre-test prior to registering for Lifeguard Training, to view class offerings and to register, visit the PARKS DIRECT.
Participants must be at least 16 years old and demonstrate the following:
- Swim 300 yards continuously, demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing
- Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs (hand placed across chest under armpits)
- Complete a timed event within 1 minute, 40 seconds
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards then surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.
- Surface and swim 20 yards on back, with both hands holding the object.
- Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
Lifeguard Instructor Training (Ages 17 & Up)
Become certified as an American Red Cross Lifeguarding Instructor. This course teaches students to train and certify participants in Lifeguarding and CPR/AED. Participants must be currently certified in basic-level Lifeguarding/First Aid/CPR/AED.
Course Completion Requirements
- Successfully complete the Online Session prior to the Pre-course session
- Successfully complete the Pre-course session
- Attend and actively participate in all course sessions
- Successfully complete class activities, including the required practice-teaching assignments. Pass the Bloodborne Pathogens Training Instructor Self-Study Test
- Pass the basic-level Administering Emergency Oxygen final written exam
- Pass the Lifeguarding Instructor course final written exam
Swimming Skills Evaluation
During the Pre-course Session, you must successfully demonstrate competency in the following swimming skills evaluation and four rescue skill scenarios:
- Swim 300 yards continuously, demonstrating breath control and rhythmic breathing
- Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs (hand placed across chest under armpits)
- Must complete a timed event within 1 minute and 40 seconds
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards then surface dive, feet-first or head-first, to a depth of 7 to 10 feet to retrieve a 10-pound object.
- Surface and swim 20 yards on back, with both hands holding the object.
- Exit the water without using a ladder or steps.
- Primary Assessment and Infant CPR scenario
- Suspected head injury rescue
- Active victim rescue scenario
- Submerged victim in 7 to 10 feet of water and perform one-rescuer adult CPR scenario for 3 minutes.
Pre-test and training courses must be taken at the same facility.
Shallow Water Lifeguard Training (Ages 15 & Up)
Become an American Red Cross Shallow Water Lifeguard. The primary purpose of this course is to learn the knowledge and skills needed to prevent and to respond to aquatic emergencies in shallow water up to 5 feet deep. Participants must have previously passed the Shallow Water Lifeguard Pre-test (both pre-test and course must be taken at the same facility). This course is for those who are interested in working at M-NCPPC’s Glenn Dale Splash Park during the summer season only.
Shallow Water Lifeguard Pre-Test
Pre-test for Water Attendant training course-both courses must be taken at the same facility. Participants must show proof of age and demonstrate the following:
- Swim continuously for 100 yards using the front crawl, breaststroke, or a combination of both.
- Tread water for 2 minutes using only the legs (hand placed across chest under armpits)
- Must complete a timed event within 50 seconds
- Starting in the water, swim 20 yards using front crawl or breaststroke then submerge to a depth of 4 to 5 feet to retrieve a 10 pound object.
- Return to surface and walk or swim 20 yards to the starting point with both hands holding the object at the surface of the water.
- Exit the pool without using a ladder or steps.
Individual Reservations
Patrons are encouraged to sign up to receive PGPARKS ALERTS/Nixle notifications for the latest updates on the status of pool operations, schedules, emergency closures, etc. To sign up for text and/ or email notices, please visit PGParks Alerts.
The outdoor pools are very popular and tend to reach capacity early in the day/sessions on weekends. To ensure patrons can be admitted to the pools, advanced reservations are encouraged during the weekends. Drop-in/day of admission will remain available until the pool’s operating capacity. Discounted admission fees for the outdoor pools are available for online reservations ONLY. Drop-in/Day-of admission fees are regular price. Make your online reservations for the weekends. Residents can make online reservations up to 10 days in advance and Non-Residents 7 days in advance. Online reservations close at 7 pm the night prior.
Please contact the indoor pools directly to inquire about additional general swim times and program offerings.
2023 Group/Camp Reservations
We welcome groups to M-NCPPC aquatic facilities during the summer. Parties of 10 or more visitors are considered groups; they require advance reservations at the facility of interest. Please use the 2023 Guidelines as a reference.
Guidelines
Please review the guidelines below to help ensure a smooth reservation process and a safe visit to our aquatic facilities:
- Group requests must be submitted using the 2023 Group/Camp Reservation Request Form (PDF) and returned to the hosting facility beginning April 24 and at least 48 hours prior to the date of the requested visit.
- Group requests are not confirmed until the hosting facility has provided the group with written confirmation via fax, mail, or email with a rental number.
- For summer reservations, group requests will be accepted April 24. Requests are taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Summer group requests will not be accepted prior to April 24. Please do not fax/email your requests prior to April 24.
- Groups must have a PARKS DIRECT account. To open a PARKS DIRECT account, the group/organization name, address, telephone number, and group contact information must be provided at the time of reservation. This information must be submitted using the official Group/Camp Reservation Form or your company/organizational letterhead.
- All visiting groups making reservations must adhere to applicable Maryland state laws and regulations concerning supervisors and the ratio of supervisors-to-children. For example, Maryland state law generally defines a counselor as someone 18 years or older and sets forth supervisor-to-child ratios of:
- 1:10 – 1 Supervisor/Counselor for every 10 children for groups with children ages 6 and older.
- 1:8 – 1 Supervisor/Counselor for every 5 children for groups with children 5 years old or younger. The 1:8 supervision ratio applies if your entire group consists of children 5 years old or younger or if your group has any amount of 5 year old or younger participants.
- Groups meeting these supervision ratios will be offered discounted admission fees for their supervisors/counselors.
- Supervisors/counselors must remain with the children in the group at poolside or in the pool.
- Children must be supervised throughout the facility including lobby areas, locker rooms, grass/patio areas, snack bars and pool and deck areas.
- If pool management determines that any child within a visiting group is not being actively supervised, the group may be subject to removal from the facility and termination of future reservations. No refunds will be issued.
- Groups are responsible for providing adequate additional supervision for children with disabilities or special needs. Groups that have children with special needs are asked to notify the facility at the time of reservation or prior to arriving on scheduled date.
Reservation Fees
| Age | Resident | Non-Resident |
| Adult | $3 | $4 |
| Child | $4.50 | $6 |
Fee Requirements
- Resident and Non-Resident group fee determination is based on the location of the sponsoring group/organization, not individuals supervising or within the group.
- Groups meeting the above supervision ratios will be offered discounted admission fees for supervisors/counselors.
- Additional adults within the group are subject to the above admission fees.
Fee Examples
- A group of 30 children 6 years of age and older would receive 3 free supervisor/counselor admissions (1 to 10).
- A group of 16 with children ages 5 years old or younger would receive 2 free supervisor/counselor admissions (1 to 8).
- A group of 31 children 6 years of age and older would receive 4 free supervisor/counselor admissions (1 to 10).
- A group of 17 including children ages 5 years old or younger would receive 3 free supervisor/counselor admissions (1 to 8).
Free supervisor/counselor admissions will be rounded up to the nearest multiple of 10.
Adult Swim Lessons
Adult lessons are for ages 18 and older and follow the American Red Cross curriculum as outlined below.
Adult Beginner (Learn-to-Swim Level 1 – Introduction to Water Skills)
Adapt to the aquatic environment while developing a positive attitude and safe practices around water. Gain basic aquatic skills such as water entry and exit; breath control and submerging; arm and leg actions; floating and gliding on the front and back; and treading in chest-deep water. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Prerequisites:
- None
Adult Intermediate (Adult Swim – Learning the Basics)
Build on fundamental aquatic skills and swimming strokes such as water entry and exit; breath control and submerging; floating and gliding on the front and back; and treading in chest-deep water. Front crawl, breaststroke, and elementary backstroke are introduced at this level. Learn the skills and concepts to stay safe in and around water and how to help during an aquatic emergency. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Prerequisites
- Successful completion of the Adult Beginner Level or participants must be able comfortable in chest-deep water
- Able to submerge face in the water and able to perform front crawl for 15 yards
Adult Advance (Adult Swim – Improving Skills & Swimming Strokes)
Build endurance and refine your front crawl, back crawl, breaststroke, and turns. Butterfly and flip turns are introduced at this level. Learn the skills and concepts to stay safe in and around water and how to help during an aquatic emergency. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Prerequisites
- Successful completion of the Adult Intermediate Level or participants must be able comfortable in deep water
- Able to put face in the water
- Able to perform strokes that can be recognized as front crawl, breaststroke, and elementary backstroke, each for 15 yards
Adult Stroke and Turn (Adult Swim – Swimming for Fitness)
Refine the six strokes, turns, and build endurance. Learn the skills and concepts to stay safe in and around water and how to help during an aquatic emergency. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Prerequisites
- Successful completion of the Adult Advance Level or participants must be able to swim the following strokes:
- Back crawl – 25 yards
- Breaststroke – 50 yards
- Butterfly – 25 yards
- Elementary Backstroke – 50 yards
- Front crawl – 50 yards
- Sidestroke – 25 yards
Parent & Child Swim Lessons
American Red Cross Parent and Child Aquatics are designed to familiarize children with water and teach swimming readiness. In addition, these courses provide safety information for parents/caregivers and teach techniques they can use to help orient their children to the water.
A caregiver (at least 16 years of age) responsible for the learner in appropriate swimming attire must be in the water to assist and support the entire lesson.
Bubblers 1 (Parent and Child Aquatics Level 1)
Build a healthy relationship with the water, your child, and other families in this protected culture of learners! This level familiarizes parents and children with the water and teaches swimming readiness skills such as becoming comfortable in the water, support techniques and beginning breath control. This level also provides safety information for parents and teaches techniques parents can use to orient their children to the water. A caregiver (at least 16 years of age) responsible for the learner in appropriate swimming attire must be in the water to assist and support the entire lesson.
Note: Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Bubblers 2 (Parent and Child Aquatics Level 2)
Increase aquatic skill development, and self-confidence, and make fitness fun with your family! This level builds on skills learned in Bubblers 1. Parents/caregivers and young children will continue to work on basic skills including water adjustment, support techniques, and breath control. Skills such as floating and kicking on front and back are explored. A caregiver (at least 16 years of age) responsible for the learner in appropriate swimming attire must be in the water to assist and support for the entire lesson. If a child who successfully completes this level are at least 3 years old, they may be ready to enroll in Bobbers (Preschool Aquatics Level 1)
Note: Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level or until they are old enough for Bobbers.
Preschool Swim Lessons
Bobbers (Preschool Aquatics Level 1)
Swimmers are familiarized to the aquatic environment and helps them acquire basic aquatic skills such as water entry and exit; breath control and submerging; floating/gliding on the front and back; and treading in chest-deep water. Arm and leg actions are also introduced at this level. Swimmers begin to develop positive attitudes and safe practices around water. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Bobbers Exit Skills Assessment:
All Bobbers exit skills can be performed with support.
1. Enter independently, using either the ramp, steps or side, travel at least 5 yards, submerge to mouth and blow bubbles for at least 3 seconds, then safely exit the water. (Children can walk, move along the gutter or “swim.”)
2. While in shallow water, glide on front for at least 2 body lengths, then roll to back and float on back for 3 seconds, then recover to a vertical position.
Floaters (Preschool Aquatics Level 2)
Swimmers build on basic swimming skills learned in the Bobbers Series including breath control and submerging; swimming using combined arm and leg actions on the front and back; and treading in shoulder-deep water. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Floaters Exit Skills Assessment:
All Floaters exit skills can be performed with assistance.
- Glide on front for at least 2 body lengths, roll to back, float on back for 15 seconds, then recover to a vertical position.
- Glide on back for at least 2 body lengths, roll to front, then recover to a vertical position.
- Swim using combined arm and leg actions on front for 3 body lengths, roll to back, float for 15 seconds, roll to front, then continue swimming on front for at least 3 body lengths.
Strokers 1 (Preschool Aquatics Level 3)
Swimmers build on the skills learned in the Bobbers and Floaters levels, with a greater emphasis on swimming on the front and back without assistance and for longer distances. Treading in shoulder-deep water for longer periods of time will also be explored. Water safety concepts are reinforced in this level. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Strokers 1 Exit Skills Assessment:
All Strokers 1 exit skills are done independently (defined as no adult contact, intervention or use of flotation devices).
- Step from the side into chest-deep water, push off the bottom, move into a treading or floating position for 15 seconds, swim on front and/or back for 5 body lengths, then exit the water.
- Move into a back float for 15 seconds, roll to front, then recover to a vertical position.
- Push off and swim using combined arm and leg actions on front for 5 body lengths, roll to back, float for 15 seconds, roll to front, then continue swimming for 5 body lengths.
Strokers 2 (Learn-to-Swim Level 3)
Swimmers will focus on stroke development including front crawl and elementary backstroke. Swimmers will be introduced to the scissors and dolphin kicks and will build on the fundamentals of treading water. Diving skills may also be introduced. Participants may also learn rules for headfirst entries and begin to learn to enter the water headfirst from a seated position at the poolside (if the water is at least 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught). Participants who successfully complete this level and who meet the appropriate age requirement may register for Youth 4. This course may be repeated until the child is old enough for Youth Level 4.
Strokers 2 Exit Skills Assessment:
- Jump into deep water from the side, recover to the surface, maintain position by treading or floating for 1 minute, rotate one full turn then turn as necessary to orient to the exit point, level off, swim front crawl and/or elementary backstroke for 25 yards, then exit the water.
- Push off in a streamlined position, then swim front crawl for 15 yards, change position and direction as necessary, swim elementary backstroke for 15 yards, then exit the water.
Stroke & Turn Lessons
Lessons focus on building endurance, stroke, and turn refinement. Participants in this course will be expected to swim longer distances using front crawl, back crawl, butterfly, elementary backstroke, breaststroke, and sidestroke. Participants will also learn to utilize equipment such as pull buoys, fins, paddles, and/or a pace clock. Using swimming as part of personal water fitness will also be discussed. To improve strength and endurance, this course may be repeated.
Prerequisite
- Successful completion of the Youth/Adult lesson 5.
Youth & Teen Swim Lessons
Youth lessons are for ages 6 to 12 years and Teen lessons are for ages 13 to 17.
Level 1: Introduction to Water Skills
Adapt to the aquatic environment while developing a positive attitude and safe practices around water. Gain basic aquatic skills such as water entry and exit; breath control and submerging; arm and leg actions; floating and gliding on the front and back; and treading in chest-deep water. Learn-to-Swim Level 1 skills overlap with the Preschool Bobbers and Floaters skills. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Exit Skills Assessment:
When children complete Learn-to-Swim Level 1, they should be comfortable getting in and moving through the water and be willing to put their face in the water. Children should also be able to use arm and leg movements with assistance.
- Enter independently, using either the ramp, steps or side; travel at least 5 yards; bob 5 times; then safely exit the water. (Participants can walk, move along the gutter or “swim.”)
- Glide on front at least 2 body lengths, roll to a back float for 5 seconds and recover to a vertical position. (This part of the assessment can be performed with assistance.)
Level 2: Fundamental Aquatic Skills
Build on the fundamental aquatic skills learned in Level 1. This level marks the beginning of true locomotion skills. Participants learn to glide and float without support and recover to a vertical position. Participants further develop simultaneous and alternating arm and leg actions on the front and back, laying the foundation for future strokes. New water safety topics are introduced and previously acquired water safety knowledge and skills are reinforced. Many of the skills taught in this level are the same skills taught in Preschool Strokers 1. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Exit Skills Assessment:
When participants complete Learn-to-Swim Level 2, they should be increasingly confident in the water. Participants are starting to swim independently using arm and leg movements, but may still need assistance when taking a breath. All Learn-to-Swim Level 2 exit skills are performed independently:
- Step from side into chest-deep water, push off the bottom, move into a treading or floating position for at least 15 seconds, swim on front and/or back for 5 body lengths, then exit the water.
- Move into a back float for 15 seconds, roll to front, then recover to a vertical position.
- Push off and swim using combined arm and leg actions on front for 5 body lengths, roll to back, float for 15 seconds, roll to front, then continue swimming for at least 5 body lengths.
Level 3: Stroke Development
Swimmers must successfully complete Level 2 as a prerequisite. Focus on expanding the proficiency of previously learned skills by providing additional guided practice. Participants learn and practice survival floating and learn to swim front crawl and elementary backstroke at rudimentary proficiency levels. You introduce the scissors and dolphin kicks and extend the time duration for treading water. Participants also learn rules for headfirst entries and begin to learn to enter the water headfirst from a seated position at poolside (if the water is 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught). As in all levels, new and previously addressed, water safety topics are included. Participants who successfully complete Level 3 have achieved basic water competency in a pool environment. Many of the skills taught in this level are the same skills taught in Preschool Strokers 2. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Exit Skills Assessment:
When participants complete Learn-to-Swim Level 3, they have achieved basic water competency in a pool environment. They are starting to show stroke proficiency in the front crawl and elementary backstroke. They have begun learning the breaststroke and the scissors kicks and can tread water for 1 minute. They demonstrate comfort in deep water and maybe able to enter the water headfirst from both the sitting and the kneeling positions (If the water is at least 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught).
- Jump into deep water from the side, recover to the surface, maintain position by treading or floating for 1 minute, rotate one full turn then turn as necessary to orient to the exit point, level off, swim front crawl and/or elementary backstroke for 25 yards, then exit the water.
- Push off in a streamlined position then swim front crawl for 15 yards, change position and direction as necessary, swim elementary backstroke for 15 yards, then exit the water.
Level 4: Stroke Improvement
Swimmers must successfully complete Level 3 as a prerequisite. Focus on improvement of aquatic skills and increase endurance by swimming the strokes learned in Level 3 (i.e., front crawl, elementary backstroke) for greater distances and with more advanced proficiency. Participants add arm actions to the previously learned scissors kick and breaststroke kick to perform the rudimentary sidestroke and to learn the breaststroke. Participants also begin to learn the back crawl and butterfly, as well as the basics of performing a simple open turn at a wall. Explore diving skills. Participants learn to enter the water headfirst from a compact and stride position at poolside (if the water is at least 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught). Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Exit Skills Assessment:
When participants complete Learn-to-Swim Level 4, they are starting to demonstrate effective and efficient strokes in the front crawl and elementary backstroke. They are starting to show stroke proficiency in the breaststroke, back crawl, butterfly and sidestroke. They can enter the water headfirst from both compact and stride positions (If the water is at least 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught).
- Perform a feetfirst entry into deep water, swim front crawl for 25 yards, change direction and position as necessary and swim elementary backstroke for 25 yards.
- Swim breaststroke for 15 yards, change direction and position as necessary, and swim back crawl for 15 yards.
- Submerge and swim a distance of 3 to 5 body lengths underwater without hyperventilating, return to the surface, then exit the water.
Level 5: Stroke Refinement
Swimmers must successfully complete Level 4 as a prerequisite. Focus on stroke refinement and increase the distance that they will swim for all six strokes: front crawl, breaststroke, butterfly, back crawl, elementary backstroke, and sidestroke. Participants will work on surface dives, flip turns and explore diving skills (if the water is at least 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught). Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Exit Skills Assessment:
When participants complete Learn-to-Swim Level 5, they are starting to demonstrate effectiveness and efficiency in all strokes. They are starting to work on endurance through longer swims that require using open and flip turns. They can enter the water using the shallow-angle dive (if the water is at least 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught) and can then continue swimming.
- Perform a shallow-angle dive into water at least 9 feet deep (If the pool is at least 9 feet deep where the lessons are taught)., swim front crawl for 50 yards, then swim elementary backstroke for 50 yards using appropriate and efficient turning styles throughout.
- Swim breaststroke for 25 yards, change direction of travel as necessary, then swim back crawl for 25 yards using appropriate and efficient turning styles throughout.
Level 6: Swimming and Skills Proficiency-Personal Water Safety
Swimmers must successfully complete Level 5 as a prerequisite. Focus on stroke refinement to develop greater efficiency, power and smoothness for longer distances. Refine the front crawl, back crawl, butterfly, elementary backstroke, breaststroke and sidestroke. There will also be extensive work on turns and water safety skills. Due to the number of skills taught in this course, participants may need to repeat this level.
Exit Skills Assessment:
When participants complete Learn-to-Swim Level 6, they are able to swim all strokes effectively and efficiently. They are able to swim continuously while using the appropriate turns for the stroke. They also have a solid understanding about how to be safe in, on and around the water.
- Swim 500 yards continuously using any 3 strokes, swimming at least 50 yards of each stroke.
- Jump into deep water, perform a survival float for 5 minutes, roll onto back and perform a back float for 5 minutes.
- Perform a feetfirst surface dive, retrieve an object from the bottom of the pool at a depth of 7 to 10 feet, return to the surface, then back to starting point.
Adaptive Aquatics
Take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of our expanded adapted aquatic program offerings. Are you seeking to learn new skills, enhance your abilities, accomplish the seemingly impossible, or just have fun? Adapted Aquatic programs allow individuals with disabilities the opportunity to live more, play more with the use of adaptive equipment and specialized instruction.
Disability Programs
The following facilities offer aquatic programs for people with disabilities.
- C.E. Reig Regional Center
Mitchelville, MD - H. Winship Weatley Special Center
Capital Heights, MD - James E Duckworth Special Center
Beltsville, MD - Jessie B. Mason Regional Center
Temple Hills, MD - Theresa Banks Memorial Aquatic Center/Glenarden Complex
Glenarden, MD - Wayne K. Curry Sports and Learning Complex
Landover, MD
Individualized Swimming Lessons
Individualized Swimming Lessons are designed for children and adults with disabilities who require one-on-one instruction. The duration of each scheduled lesson is 30 minutes in length. Lessons are held at various locations throughout the county. Participants at all skill levels are welcome.
Water Fitness
The Department offers a variety of low and high-impact water fitness options for adults and seniors. Shallow and deep-water course options are available.
Some examples of the water fitness courses offered include:
Shallow Water Aerobics
A fast-paced and energy-packed exercise class aimed to improve cardiovascular function! You’ll get the added benefits of feeling refreshed, having a lighter mood, increased range of motion, sustained vitality, and building relationships with fellow exercise enthusiasts who love the water.
Deep Water Aerobics
Deep water is nature’s aquatic fitness machine making you feel pounds lighter and allowing you to achieve your health goals through a balanced workout routine. This class is perfect for those hoping to relieve stress on their joints. We’ll tone abs, thighs, glutes, and the upper body. Flotation belts may be used.
Aqua Spinning
Beat the temptation to be a couch potato with this challenging, aerobic, and anaerobic workout utilizing stationary bikes in the water with tension settings that allow you to work at your fitness level. This heart-healthy exercise strengthens and tones your hamstrings, buttocks, and inner thighs. Join our team-like, non-judgmental culture of diverse spinners while having fun moving to great tunes.
Aqua Zumba
This Latin-inspired aerobic workout is a fun, calorie-burning dance workout but done in low-impact water at the shallow end of the pool.
Aqua Fusion
Stir up your water routine by adding a mix of various aerobic fitness styles! Increase your strength level and bolster your mood through a blend of Water Aerobics, Aqua Sculpt, Aqua Tabata, and Boot Camp rolled into one class. In addition, you will use equipment designed to build your stamina and achieve a healthy lifestyle.
Aqua Arthritis
Enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle with increased flexibility, muscle strength, better posture, and balance. Whether arthritis, muscle fatigue, chronic pain, or surgery rehabilitation, you can join us for slow-moving, bounce-free exercise with lower impact on joints.
Aqua Boot Camp
Make a splash in this boot camp style approach to interval training that includes using water as a resistance tool while performing different exercises.
Aqua Sculpt
Use cardio and toning exercises to sculpt your body in a high-intensity, bounce-free workout. Held in the shallow end of the pool, there will be little to no impact on your joints using power and suspension moves for quick toning. Gain the self-confidence to look and feel your best!
Abs and Glutes
Splash your way to stronger abs and glutes! Discover how these muscle groups, when exercised properly, help you look your best while supporting your spine. You will use powerful techniques to tone and sculpt away inches. You will feel stronger, more self-confident, and be on your way to increased flexibility.
Hydro Pilates
This active course will take the pressure off your joints through the natural buoyancy of water. Build stamina as you tone and strengthen all your muscle groups. Enjoy a good, cardio workout and bond with others excited about maintaining great health.
**Please note: not all water fitness class types are offered at all the aquatic facilities. Please click here for specific course offerings, locations, and schedules.
Water Safety Training
The Department of Parks and Recreation is an American Red Cross Training Provider. To view class offerings and to register, visit PARKS DIRECT
Water Safety Instructor (WSI) Course
Blended Learning (Ages 16 & Up)
The American Red Cross Water Safety Instructor Blended Learning course trains instructor candidates to teach swim lessons and other water safety programs through instructor lead sessions and interactive online homework assignments.
Requirements
- Must be at least 16 years old
- Participants must have previously passed the Pre-test for Water Safety Instructor Training course that is listed below (both pre-test and course must be taken at the same facility).
- Each homework assignment will require participants to have access to the Internet.
Water Safety Instructor Training Pre-Test (Ages 16 & Up)
This pre-test is necessary for both Water Safety Instructor Training courses (both pre-test and course must be taken at the same facility). Participates must be at least 16 years old and will need to demonstrate the ability to perform the following swimming skill at Youth 4/Adult 4 level proficiency:
- 15 yards Butterfly
- 25 yards Back Crawl
- 25 yards Breaststroke
- 25 yards Elementary Backstroke
- 25 yards Front Crawl
- 25 yards Sidestroke
- Maintain position on back for 1 minute in deep water (floating or sculling)
- Tread water for 1 minute
Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers
The free Water Safety for Parents and Caregivers Online Course focuses on developing an awareness of the risks of drowning and how to minimize those risks, especially for young children. This online course teaches parents and caregivers about the concepts of the circle of drowning prevention, water competency, and the chain of drowning survival. It also provides guidance for applying water safety to common environments and situations where children are most at risk for drowning.
This free program is accessible online in English and Spanish.
Becoming a Water Safety Ambassador
The free Becoming a Water Safety Ambassador course covers fundamentals of water safety, provides an orientation to Red Cross materials to teach water safety in dryland, classroom-based setting, and offers ideas on how to implement water safety education in your community. This online course is intended for teachers as well as adult and youth leaders in the community who are committed to sharing Red Cross resources to impact drowning rates, especially in places that are most at risk for drowning.
This free program is accessible online.
Safety Training for Swim Coaches
The American Red Cross Safety Training for Swim Coaches program, which was developed in partnership with USA Swimming, is designed to teach those involved in competitive swimming including coaches, officials, athletic trainers, and aquatic exercise trainers, how to help:
- Maintain a comfortable and safe environment for swimmers.
- Prevent accidents and emergencies.
- Respond to swimmers with illnesses or injuries in water or on land.
Course Requirements
The Safety Training for Swim Coaches certification requirement can be met through a two-step process:
- All individuals interested in taking Safety Training for Swim Coaches should start by registering for Safety Training for Swim Coaches Online Content Only on redcross.org.
- In Water Verification of Skills:
- Option 1: Coaches who hold a current certification in Lifeguarding, Shallow Water Lifeguarding, or Aquatic Attraction Lifeguarding have satisfied the requirements for Safety Training for Swim Coaches in-water skills and are not required to complete any additional in-water skills sessions.
- Option 2: Coaches who do not hold one of the above certifications can attend an in-water skills session delivered by a Water Safety Instructor or Lifeguarding Instructor. Email pg-aquatics@pgparks.com to connect with a Water Safety or Lifeguarding Instructor.
- Option 3: Print the generic STSC In-Water Skills Checklist and review the skills with an instructor certified by one of the organizations on the USA Swimming checklist. This form can be found on the Red Cross Learning Center.
Course Prerequisites
To participate in the Safety Training for Swim Coaches course, participants must be at least 15 years of age on or before the final scheduled session of the course. There are no skill prerequisites to enroll in the Safety Training for Swim Coaches course. However, because there is an in-water skills session, participants must be comfortable in chest-deep water.
Certification Requirements
To receive the course completion certificate, the participant must:
- Complete the online portion of the course, including achieving a minimum score of 80 percent on the online written exam.
- Meet the in-water skill verification requirement by either
- Completing the in-water skill session
- Maintaining a lifeguarding certification
- Having skills reviewed by an instructor certified by one of the organizations on the USA Swimming checklist
Upon successful completion of the Safety Training for Swim Coaches online content and meeting the in-water skill verification requirement, participants should provide the necessary certificates and documentation as proof of course completion to their national governing body, such as USA Swimming and Y-USA.
Swim Team
The Prince George’s Parks and Recreation (PGPR) Sharks Swim Team is an official USA Swimming Team (PGPR-PV) within the Potomac Valley Swimming LSC. The Club Season begins in the Fall and continues throughout the Winter and Spring. The Summer Season Team competes in the Prince-Mont Swim League. Club and Summer Season swim meet competitions locations will vary across the DMV area.
AQUATICS FOR ALL SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Did you know African Americans are 1.5 times more likely to die from drowning than Whites? Did you know despite improvements in diversity efforts, African Americans still comprise less than 5% of competitive swimmers?
Legendary Marathon swimmer William “Bill” Shipp stepped up this year to raise funding, to ensure that Prince George’s County minorities learn how to swim and the barriers to competitive swimming are reduced.
A triple crown-winning swimmer, Bill has completed numerous open water swims. As a resident of Prince George’s County and advocate of competitive swimming for all, Mr. Shipp decided to dedicate his June 16th 20-mile DC Marathon Swim in the Potomac, from the Key Bridge to Mt. Vernon, to raising funds to support the Aquatics for All swim programs within the M-NCPPC, Department of Parks and Recreation, Prince George’s County.
2023 Summer Swim Camp Scholarship
Interested in learning how to swim and attend Summer Camp with us? The Aquatics For All Summer Swim Camp Scholarship will cover the cost of a designated swim camp session at one of our facilities for selected contest winners (this scholarship does not cover before or after care).
This is a one-time scholarship for Prince George’s county residents to increase access to swim camps and is available for first-time swim camp participants only. Applicants must complete the Aquatics For All Swim Camp Scholarship Application including completing an illustration for a Swim Camp (ages 6-12) or an essay for Junior Lifeguarding Camp (ages 11-14) by the designated deadline (May 5, 2023).
Applicants ages 6-12 interested in the camps listed below must submit with their application a drawing illustrating “Why they want to learn to swim and attend camp”. With the picture, please include 1-2 sentences describing the illustration. During the application process, you will be able to select your top 2 choices of the camps listed below to attend if selected as a scholarship recipient.
- Dunk’n Dive Sports Camp at Allentown Splash, Tennis & Fitness Park
- July 24 – August 4, 2023
- Dunk’n Dive Sports Camp at Allentown Splash, Tennis & Fitness Park
- August 7 – August 18, 2023
- Swim and Fitness Camp at Fairland Sports and Aquatics Complex
- July 24 – August 4, 2023
- Swim Camp at Ellen E. Linson Splash Park
- July 10 – 21, 2023
Applicants aged 11 to 14 interested in the Junior Lifeguard Camp must submit with their application an essay answering “Why they are interested in being a Lifeguard” (250 words or less)
- Junior Lifeguard Camp at Allentown Splash, Tennis & Fitness Park (Ages 11-14 Only) Essay Required
- June 26 – 30, 2023
Eligibility
- Must be a Prince George’s County Resident
- Must be a first-time swim camp participant for swim camp scholarship (not including Junior Lifeguard Camp)
- Scholarship is only available for camps and sessions listed on the application
- Must be at least 6 years old at the start of camp and no older than 12 by the end of the camp session for Swim Camps
- Must be at least 11 years old at the start of camp and no older than 14 by the end of the camp session for Junior Lifeguard Camp
Swim Team Scholarship
This scholarship is geared toward improving the accessibility of competitive swim for African American and Hispanic/Latino swimmers.
This is a one-year need based scholarship to assist swimmers with team fees for Prince George’s Parks & Recreation (PGPR) Sharks swim team and is not guaranteed each year. Once completed applications are submitted, they will be reviewed, scholarship awards will be determined and families will be contacted regarding application status. All applicants must agree to fulfill all of the scholarship recipient expectations as listed below. This scholarship is available for PGPR Sharks school year and summer swim seasons as funding allows. Applicants must designate season(s) they are applying for when submitting application. This scholarship is not eligible for meet fees and equipment. Those already registered for the 2022-2023 season are still able to apply for this scholarship.
- We are no longer accepting scholarship applications
