FORT BEND ISD (May 26, 2026) – Holley Elementary fourth graders traded their usual school-day routine for goggles, floating practice and a lesson that could stay with them long after summer begins. 

Earlier this month, students visited the FBISD Aquatic Practice Facility for a hands-on learning experience focused on basic swimming skills, pool safety and confidence in the water. The effort was created through a collaboration between FBISD Athletics and the Behavioral Health & Wellness Department, giving students a meaningful way to learn skills that help them stay safer in and around water. 

Across six swim days, Holley fourth grade classes visited the facility for one-hour swim sessions led by certified instructors. They practiced floating, kicking, swimming and using flotation devices while also learning what to do if someone nearby is struggling in the water, including how to toss a flotation device instead of jumping in after them. 

“Water safety education teaches students to respect the importance of appropriate behavior around a body of water and equips them with crucial lifesaving skills,” Assistant Natatorium Manager and Dive Coach John Isbell said. 

The effort was led by Kim Taylor and Shannon Nash from PE and Wellness, with support from Katie Anselmo, Natatorium Manager, certified swim instructors, aquatics staff and a handful of high school swimmers/divers. 

“As a district, we know that student wellness extends beyond the classroom,” Director of Behavioral Health & Wellness Lori Sartain said. “Learning to swim is not only an important life skill, it also encourages students to trust themselves, try something new and develop healthy habits that support both physical and emotional well-being.” 

For many Holley students, the experience was also a chance to try something new. Swim instructors shared that some students who were initially more reserved began to open up after their first couple of days in the pool. Students were also seen cheering each other on, listening closely during pool-edge instruction and encouraging classmates as they practiced. 

For some, the lessons helped them feel more comfortable in deeper water, especially if they had only practiced in shallow water before. 

For Holley Elementary students, the experience was about more than swimming... It was a chance to gain confidence in a new setting, learn important safety skills and feel supported before heading into summer. 

The opportunity was part of a pilot effort that could potentially bring similar water safety experiences to more FBISD elementary students in the future, if funding becomes available.