AquaMissions aims to teach water safety to kids in Cleveland

CLEVELAND — In the waters of Cleveland State University’s pool, a new wave of opportunity is making a splash for students from Scranton Elementary School.

For many of these fourth graders, this isn’t just a swim lesson—it’s their first real introduction to the water.

Dr. Stephanie Brooks, founder of “Swim the Gap,” is huge supporter of the initiative, recognizing the need to address water safety disparities in Cleveland’s communities.

“About a year ago, I started meeting with groups in the community about the gaps in water safety and swimming in Cleveland,” Brooks said.

As Dean of the College of Health at CSU, Dr. Brooks felt a responsibility to take action.

“I really felt that we had a responsibility to make sure that we were contributing to the decreased drowning rates and the disparities in swimming, particularly in our brown and Black communities,” Brooks said.

This vision led to a collaboration with AquaMissions, a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching water safety to Cleveland’s youth.

Dr. Lynne Nagy, founder of AquaMissions, has witnessed firsthand the impact of these lessons.

“Many are coming from a bathtub to the swimming pool. Many of the girls have never had a swimsuit on. It’s just transformational.”

For these students, access to a pool was once out of reach—until now. 

“Swimming is an essential life skill. It is the same as reading and writing—to be able to save yourself. And then it’s the bridge to the joy and the pleasure of the Great Lake and all the water activities,” Nagy said.

What sets this program apart is the way it empowers students to progress at their own pace.

“It’s challenged by your choice. If you don’t feel comfortable doing it, just take a deep breath and try,” said Nairah, a student who participates in AquaMissions.

Nagy sees the different ways children approach their first swim lesson.

“Some children want to watch first before they’re very brave souls, and many are very, very afraid. They pick what they want to do, they’re encouraged, supported, and loved.”

For 10-year-old Olga, the experience goes beyond fun—it’s about safety.

“In case any accident happens that involves water, they’re able to swim,” she said.

Ms. Webb, a CMSD staff member, has witnessed the transformation in both students and families.

“It’s changing the trajectory of a lot of our families. We had kids and parents who were really reluctant to take swim lessons, and by the fourth week, those kids are swimming laps and really enjoying themselves.”

With each splash, these students aren’t just learning to swim—they’re embracing new possibilities.

Nagy extends an open invitation to those who want to support this mission.

“We welcome anybody that wants to help this mission because we’re passionate about it. We want to make the lake and all pools accessible to everybody in a safe, fun way.”

To learn more about AquaMissions, click HERE.

To learn more about Swim the Gap, click HERE.

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