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“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim. Swimming is more than a summer activity –it’s a life-saving skill that helps children safely enjoy our pools, lakes and beaches with confidence,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle.
A lifeguard sat ready on her stand at the Melnea A. Cass Recreation pool in 2024. John Tlumacki/The Boston Globe /File
June 18, 2026 | 7:17 PM
1 minute to read
The Department of Conservation and Recreation announced the reopening of 24 community pools across the state on Thursday, along with the return of its free youth swimming lessons, the agency said.
“Every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to swim. Swimming is more than a summer activity –it’s a life-saving skill that helps children safely enjoy our pools, lakes and beaches with confidence,” said DCR Commissioner Nicole LaChapelle.
The DCR will offer free swimming lessons for children ages four to twelve in 19 participating pools throughout the state, as part of their Learn to Swim Program, the DCR said in a press release.
“Classes are organized by age, designed for beginner-level swimmers, and based on the American Red Cross curriculum, with a focus on water safety and learning basic swimming skills,” the government agency said.
Lessons will be held at pools in Agawam, Boston, Cambridge, Chelsea, Chicopee, Clinton, Fall River, Fitchburg, Hyde Park, Lawrence, Malden, Melrose, Milford, Somerville, Springfield, Watertown, and Worcester, the DCR said.
The program is divided into three summer sessions, each consisting of eight 30-minute lessons, the DCR said.
Session 1 will start on July 6 and last until July 14. Registration opened on June 11, the agency said.
Session 2 runs from July 20 to July 31. Registration opens on July 6, at 8 a.m., the department said.
Session 3 starts on August 3rd, and ends on August 14. Registration opens at 8 a.m. on July 20, the DCR said.
The Lowell Police Department will also be offering free swimming lessons at the DCR’s Raymond Memorial Swimming Pool for ages six through 16, the DCR said.
Life guards will be available seven days a week from 10:15 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. at 30 DCR swimming areas, the department said.
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