Resolution calling upon the State of New York to include in its curriculum requirements, swimming lessons and water safety education to all students in public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade where appropriate and swimming-related instruction, such as water safety and dry land strokes to all students in public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade when their school does not have a pool in the building or is not within 10 miles of a pool where appropriate.

Res. No. 206

Resolution calling upon the State of New York to include in its curriculum requirements, swimming lessons and water safety education to all students in public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade where appropriate and swimming-related instruction, such as water safety and dry land strokes to all students in public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade when their school does not have a pool in the building or is not within 10 miles of a pool where appropriate.

 By Council Members Eugene, Rosenthal, Brooks-Powers, Kallos, Louis and Rose

Whereas, According the New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH), regardless of their age group, drowning is a leading cause of injury-related death in children; and

Whereas, According to the NYS DOH,  African American males and females have a significantly higher drowning rate than White and Hispanic males and females; and

Whereas, Out of all of the 1,477,146 youth ages 5 years old to 19 years old in NYC in 2010, 26.2% are African American youth;  and

Whereas, New York City is home to a multitude of beaches and pools which provide free recreation and enjoyment for millions of New Yorkers and visitors each year; and

Whereas, Exercising water safety measures can prevent drownings and water-related injuries and ensure that fun does not unnecessarily turn into tragedy; and

Whereas, Swimming is also a valuable component in a number of efforts to maintain good health and can aid in preventing potential life threatening conditions, such as obesity and diabetes, and learning to swim can provide beneficial opportunities such as participation on a team or employment as a lifeguard; and

Whereas, The New York City Administration for Children's Service and the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene recommend enrolling children in swimming lessons by a qualified instructor, usually at age 4 or older; and

Whereas, New York City Parks has 12 recreational centers with indoor pools and 53 free outdoor pool sites; now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York calls upon the State of New York to include in its curriculum requirements, swimming lessons and water safety education to all students in public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade where appropriate and swimming-related instruction, such as water safety and dry land strokes to all students in public schools from kindergarten through 12th grade when their school does not have a pool in the building or is not within 10 miles of a pool where appropriate. 

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LS 2625/ Res. 500-2014

LS 720

JKS/KJ

1/4/2018