This post was written by our partners at Tacoma Public Schools.
In the pool at the Pearl Street Family YMCA, as one student struggles in the water, two more step into action, pulling him onto a rescue board and safely getting him out of the water.
This was a practice drill, part of the nationally recognized certification program where participants earn their YMCA Lifeguard Certification as well as Health and Safety Institute Basic Life Support, Basic First Aid, and Emergency use of Medical Oxygen. During the last week of school for the Science and Math Institute (SAMi), a group of six students reported to the Pearl Street Family YMCA to earn those certifications.
The partnership between the Tacoma Public Schools and the YMCA of Pierce and Kitsap Counties is now in its fourth year. Students who complete the course earn the certifications required for a job as a lifeguard and are also guaranteed a job interview at the Pearl Street Family YMCA.
“This program is such a great partnership,” said Joni Hall, Co-Director of the SAMi. “We want to provide our students with opportunities to earn certifications and to find meaningful work experiences. Lifeguard certification does both.”
The course is offered at no cost to students and families. If taken independently, the course would cost about $275. The intensive training includes a swim fitness test, several hours of online coursework requiring an 80% passing score, and five full days of in-person training in both the pool and classroom. The final step is an in-pool test where students must proficiently demonstrate the skills they’ve learned.
"This program is a win-win,” said Michael Byersdorf, Associate Executive Director of the Pearl Street Family YMCA. “We are always looking for new team members to work in our aquatics center. This allows us to connect with students, provide training, and build relationships.”
Lifeguard certifications also help address a critical public safety issue. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1 to 4. In Washington state, finding qualified lifeguards is a consistent challenge. This program helps fill that gap by training and hiring capable young people from the local community. If you or someone you know is interested in becoming a lifeguard, the Y has several positions open.
TPS plans to continue the program next year and hopes to expand it to students from other Tacoma schools.
Districtwide, TPS has goals for every student to earn Industry Recognized Credentials (IRC) and engage in paid work experiences before graduation. Preparing students for high school and beyond means ensuring students have access to training and certifications. Through classes and other TPS programs, students have access to dozens of training courses. The class of 2024 earned a whopping 1,361 IRCs. And through programs such as Jobs 253 and partners, students gain valuable work experience.
“I see firsthand the value of giving kids training and job opportunities,” said Hall. “You see them mature, and their confidence grows. And that has a positive ripple effect on other parts of their life, from school to relationships.”