Edison students enjoy access to water

Each September, students at Thomas Edison Elementary spend the month honing their swimming skills as the only school of Glendale’s 20 elementaries with access to a swimming pool.

Three years ago, physical education teacher Mark Gang began teaching fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders how to swim in the Pacific Community Pool.

He had two objectives: to coach students into becoming confident enough in the water that should they fall into a pool, lake or ocean, they could float or swim to safety. The second was to see youngsters enjoy themselves.

“My goal is so the parents don’t have to worry about their kid falling in the water…. that’s the No. 1 reason why I do this — for the kids to be water-safe. Of course, the other one is so they have fun and they can get some good physical activity. It’s great — they have a blast.”

Some students arrive in Gang’s class afraid to hold their breath underwater, never having been in a pool. Some swim comfortably, while others need more coaching when it comes to kicking or using their arms.

Gang also works with his assistant Bon Sam as city lifeguards keep an eye on the action.

By the end of September, Gang said he sees the students gain more confidence, and their parents can worry less.

“My biggest concern is for the kids who feel uncomfortable in the water,” said Gang, who is in his 25th year teaching physical education to Glendale students.

He said he enjoys teaching students beyond the typical physical-education sports and activities.

“I can do something alternative, where they’re in water, using a different set of muscles,” he said. “It’s good for all kids, and they have fun.”