Disclaimer: This micro-site was created for University of Washington Commlead 541 Class. It is an example template. For the official Seattle City Council Website and policies, visit: https://www.seattle.gov/council.
Notes to Website Editor: Before launch of the micro-site, site to be localized per SPS supported top languages. Page should be organized as a tab on this landing page: https://www.seattle.gov/council/issues. All coordinating partners need sign-off before being listed on the site, hotline number to updated, and FAQ to be regularly updated per feedback sessions & townhalls.
Seattle Water Safety Initiative (SWSI): Swimming Policy for the 2024-2025 School Year
IMPORTANT: We have launched the Seattle Water Safety Initiative in response to public feedback, please refer to our updated section here.
Contact Information:
For immediate safety concerns or policy questions, please contact our
SWSI Hotline: (*206-SEA-SWIM*)
SWSI Hotline: (*206-SEA-SWIM*)
For all general questions and public inquiries: swimpolicy@seattle.gov
SPS: For Media inquiries submitted please use our SPS Media Requests form or through our Public Affairs contact at 206-252-0200.
Direct contact to our Seattle City Council President, Sara Nelson: Sara.Nelson@seattle.gov, (206) 684-8809
Overview
Why Swimming Education Matters
For children ages 1-14, drowning is the second leading cause of unintentional injury-related death, surpassed only by motor vehicle accidents. Starting this year, all Seattle Public Schools (SPS) students are required to pass a swim test before graduating. This policy was passed by the Seattle City Council (SCC) in an effort to address high drowning rates. In addition to being safety-oriented, the policy aims to equip all students with essential life-saving skills, while also promoting equitable access to swimming education.
Give Us Your Feedback - Where to find us
Webmaster Edits: To be updated with real dates for the public to find the schedule of events, and established SWSI hotline number.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Webmaster Edits: To be updated with direct feedback from local ESL townhalls, and questions received from the SWSI hotline/assemblies, and events. Example questions below: FAQ and site to be translated into six SPS primary languages
Example FAQs
Q1: Who do I contact for more information about the swim policy?
A: Visit our Contact Page or e-mail us at swimpolicy@seattle.gov
Q2: Will failing the swim test prevent me from graduating, even if it’s not my fault?
A: As with all graduation requirements, your unique situation will be assessed with your guidance counselor. If you have any concerns about the swim policy, please work directly with them to ensure your needs are met, or reach out to us at swimpolicy@seattle.gov for the latest info.
Q3: Will students who cannot participate for health or religious reasons still be able to graduate?
A: Yes. As with all graduation requirements, students who need accommodations will receive them. For those unable to participate in standard pool settings, we will work with schools and families to identify potential safe, alternative ways to meet the life-saving skills requirement.
Additional Resources
The Seattle Water Safety Initiative is our commitment to the safety and well-being of our children. By equipping our students with swimming skills, we take the first step saving our students lives from unintentional drowning.