Rec & Parks adopts I.C.U. Swimming Inc. alternative P.E. program and adds FREE instructional swimming to the curriculum for Baltimore City Schools

Baltimore Recreation and Park looks into a new program that may have found a way to reduce childhood obesity, while enhance physical education and decreasing the resource gap found between City and Suburban Schools. End Quote

"What is most surprising is the use of our program, by schools, to improve attendance and behavior"

Baltimore, MD (1888PressRelease) March 20, 2014 - In the mist of recreational center closings, low performing test scores, and the growing epidemic of childhood obesity, one program has managed to provide a solution through instructional fun and fitness. Inspired by a report from the Baltimore City Council Task-force on Childhood Obesity, "…Schools are one of the only places where large groups of children can be taught about being healthy and active," I.C.U. Swimming Inc. set out the challenge the traditional model of after-school programs, and the usage of Baltimore City indoor Recreation and Parks' facilities.

By changing the program schedule from after-school to school day, I.C.U. Swimming Inc. created an alternative supporting physical education program that fits within the curriculum of City Schools. Offering group instructional swimming to children, grades K-8, I.C.U. Swimming Inc. may have found a way to reduce childhood obesity while enhance physical education and decreasing the resource gap found between City and Suburban Schools. Through a partnership with Baltimore City Recreation and Parks - Aquatics Division, exclusive usage of its indoor heated pools facilities in Callow Hill Aquatic Center, Cherry Hill Aquatic Center and Chick Web Recreation Center was granted between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m., Monday - Friday. Over minimum 6-week duration, I.C.U. Swimming Inc. instructs up to 200 kids per day, at each facility, with free school bus transportation offered to participating school.

"What is most surprising is the use of our program by schools to improve attendance and behavior. I never thought swimming would help in academic performance, only that it would add value and excitement for kids about going to school," said Curtis Cook, Program Director for I.C.U. Swimming Inc.

In less than three years, I.C.U. Swimming Inc. now accounts for nearly 60% of Recreation and Parks' annual pool facility visitor count, growing from an approved vendor to a pre-qualified service provider for Baltimore City Public School (BCPS), Charter Schools, Faith-based Schools, and Head Start Programs. I.C.U. Swimming Inc. has also collaborated with Elev8 Baltimore and East Baltimore Development Inc. for its East Baltimore summer learning camp programs. Franklin Square EMS, Garrett Heights EMS, KIPP Academy, F.L. Templeton Preparatory, Baltimore Christian School and St. Francis Xavier Head Start Program are just a few of the schools who have benefited from the I.C.U. Swimming program.

Baltimore City Recreation and Parks - Aquatics Division will now continue the program on its own, as a FREE service to all Baltimore City Public Schools lead by the Department of Recreation and Parks Director, Ernest W. Burkeen Jr. and Aquatics Manager, Darryl Sutton. I.C.U. Swimming Inc. will continue to develop more alternative supporting physical education and fitness programs for City Schools and organization, with plans to expand to nearby cities.

http://www.icuSwimming.com

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