Making waves: Aquatics Coordinator teaches life skills to people of all ages

When it comes to swimming, District 191 Aquatics Coordinator Jessi Mosley has been making waves since she was eight months old. Learning the movements and developing muscle memory at this young age, Mosley grew fond of the water. She went on to participate in lessons at District 191 through the American Red Cross swim program where water safety, survival, and self-rescue skills are incorporated into each level, beginning with babies.

“After passing all the swim levels, I became a Junior Lifeguard and Water Safety Aid and volunteered from the ages of 12-14 at Metcalf Middle School,” Mosley said. “At fifteen years old, I became a certified Lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor and began to work for the district. I continued up through the ranks and became a Lifeguard Instructor and Aquatics Coordinator. I have now been working for District 191 in Aquatics for 22 years.” 

Today, the American Red Cross swim program splashes on with all ages starting at six months old. Course options include group lessons, individual lessons, lap swim, aqua exercise, open swim, lifeguarding certification classes, CPR classes and Water Safety Aide classes. 

For Mosley, the affinity for the District 191 Aquatics Program runs deeper than her lifelong love of the water. She is one of many current staff who started in the program at a young age only to return as instructors later in life. 

“Aquatics is a fulfilling job where you learn safety, survival, responsibility, and life skills,” she said. “My favorite aspect of instructing and coordinating this program is that I get to teach a life skill to people in the community where I grew up. I feel like I am able to give back to the district and hopefully influence people through teaching.”