First graders in the Stanley County, St. Joseph and Pierre elementary schools will all get free swimming lessons this year thanks to a collaboration between Sanford, the schools and the Oahe Family YMCA.
YMCA executive director Aaron Fabel says the lessons will be given during the school day.
Fabel says having at least a basic knowledge of how to swim is an important skill, especially considering the easy access to multiple bodies of water in the Pierre and Fort Pierre area.
Fabel says parents of 1st graders will receive more information once schedules for each school are finalized.
