YMCA and Botetourt schools collaborate for new programs

Collaborative new programs between the YMCA and Botetourt County Public Schools will be future offering for students. “Y Spash” will have a component for all 2nd graders to provide them with the skills necessary to save themselves,” said Keith Pennington, Supervisor of Instruction announced the programs at the January 10, school board meeting.

The students will have three classes on safety in their classrooms and then three half days at the YMCA pool learning how to float or tread water or whatever is necessary in order to stay above water. A canoe will also be used. All county second graders will be included.

If they do not successfully complete the end-of program assessment they can return to the pool on their on time for free follow-up instruction he said.

Another exciting new program Summer PE/Health 9 is a six week tuition based summer school program hosted at the Daleville YMCA for rising 9th graders and students meeding to complete the PE/Health9 course.

Pre-enrollment meeting will be required to participate.

” The Y has been great to work with,” said Pennington of his interactions with YMCA Director Trisha Reynolds. “We are forging a positive relationship.” The PE course will free up space in the schedule for the 9th grader to explore another course early in their high school career.

The offerings in the class will be taught by BCPS teachers andYMCA instructors. Field trips, classes like Yoga and a Spin Classes, swimming and other components not ordinarily available in the school setting. Parents /Students will be responsible for transportation to the Y.

YMCA staff and BCPS teachers will meet with and monitor the students as well as provide instruction and activity verification. Grading will follow the traditional format as a traditional PE/Health Course.

— Story by Cathy Benson. Photo by Cathy Benson