Community Partnership Makes a Splash for Mary Street Community School Students

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Smiles, splashes, and life-saving skills are making waves thanks to an incredible community partnership that is opening doors for students at Mary Street Community School. 

Through the generous support of the Rotary Club of Oshawa, Grade 5 students at Mary Street Community School are participating in swimming lessons at the Oshawa YMCA, conveniently located across the street from the school. For many of these students, this marks their very first experience in the water, making the opportunity both meaningful and transformative. 

The initiative was made possible with the support of the Ignite Durham Learning Foundation (IDLF), which helped to connect with the Rotary Club of Oshawa, Mary Street Community School, and the YMCA. IDLF also ensured that every student had access to essential swimwear, along with snacks to enjoy after their initial swim session, removing barriers and ensuring all students could participate fully. 

“We are incredibly grateful for this investment in children’s safety and well-being,” said Stacey Lepine-Fisher, Executive Director of Ignite Durham Learning Foundation. “The smiles on the students’ faces and the opportunities being provided to them are what this is all about. These are experiences that build confidence, joy, and critical lifelong skills.” 

Beyond learning how to swim, students are gaining critical water-safety knowledge, confidence, and resilience; skills that will benefit them for years to come. The joy is evident from the moment they step out of the pool, proud of what they’ve accomplished and excited for what comes next. 

Kyrstin Orr, Grade 5 teacher at Mary Street Community School shared the impact this experience has had on her students: 

“This opportunity has been truly incredible for my kiddos. Many of them were nervous at first, but now they walk into the YMCA with excitement. Watching them overcome their fears, support one another, and celebrate their progress has been so heart-warming. This experience means more than just swim lessons, it’s about inclusion, and showing our students that their community believes in them.” 

The Rotary Club of Oshawa, IDLF, Mary Street Community School, and the Durham YMCA are proud to work together to create meaningful, joyful opportunities for students, demonstrating the powerful impact that community partnerships can have when they come together for children. 

Together, this collaboration is not just teaching students how to swim; it’s helping them dive into new possibilities