City of Monroe offers free swim lessons hosted by MPD, MFD

MONROE, La (KTVE/KARD) – The city of Monroe collaborated with the Monroe Fire Department (MFD) and the Monroe Police Department (MPD) to offer free swim lessons over the summer.

The opportunity allows individuals ages five and up to become acquainted with water and learn key skills needed for swimming. The classes are held every Monday at the Johnson Community Center and the Marbles Community Center. KTVE/KARD spoke with the supervisor of the Johnson Community Center for more details on the classes.

Kids are always going to be faced with opportunity, with water especially as they expand their horizon, go to new places and we want them to be prepared for that. So we want them to be able to do the basics just to keep themselves a float, get to the center or wherever they can dock to get out of the water.

Larrese Rollins, Center Supervisor | Johnson Community Center

The classes are held at 9 AM, 10 AM, and 11 AM. Every class is limited to twelve participants and lasts one hour. Parents of children are required to present during the lesson. Parents of four attendees spoke to KTVE/KARD about feeling more comfortable that their children have been introduced to water and are learning the valuable lesson of swimming.

When a child has no knowledge of it, you know, that’s where fear can be built. So with them being more knowledgeable they’re able to be comfortable in the case that we’re not around, they’re able to save themselves.

Charisse Tate, Parent of attendees

Many of us know that swimming lessons are extremely expensive now a days. For those that would benefit from, I would say take advantage of it. You know, your children are also getting an opportunity to get out here and enjoy themselves

Jermario Tate, Parent of attendees

On July 29, 2024, the free swim lessons will also expand to include senior citizens as part of the MPD Senior Program. To register for the class, visit either the Johnson or Marbles Community Center.