Most students come to the program as non-swimmers. Joined in the pool by their classroom teachers, they learn trust and build self-esteem – qualities which carry over into the classroom. Horizons students in all grades receive 2-3 swimming lessons per week thanks to our partnerships with Mission Pool, La Petite Baleen, and the Don Fisher Clubhouse.
Swimming is a core aspect of our programming which:
We believe in nurturing the whole child to ensure our students thrive not only academically, but also emotionally and socially.
A Horizons summer gives students the opportunity to stay connected to their classmates and make new friends. Students also form close and trusting relationships with teachers and staff members. By retaining many of the same teachers from year to year, we allow these connections to grow and develop.
Horizons teachers are trained in trauma-informed and non-punitive classroom management strategies that focus on restorative justice. We also employ two full-time Wellness Coaches during the summer, who provide students with one-on-one social and emotional support. As of 2019, 100% of staff reported seeing students develop their social skills.
