Foss Swim School – Lakeview

Foss Swim School – Chicago (Lakeview) is a specialized swim instruction facility dedicated exclusively to teaching swimming to students of all ages and abilities. Founded by Jon and Susan Foss in 1993, the school has grown to become one of the premier swim schools in the region, with the Chicago location being one of 33 schools across the Midwest.

The facility features warm 91-degree water pools purpose-built for learning, with a U-shaped pool design that allows multiple classes to run simultaneously at different skill levels. The school offers programs ranging from Backfloat Baby classes for infants starting at 20 months old, to Learn-to-Swim programs, Swim Stronger, and Swim Faster advanced classes. All programs are taught in small class sizes of 3-4 students per instructor, ensuring personalized attention and optimal learning.

Teachers at Foss Swim School receive thorough training in the proprietary Swim Path curriculum, which focuses on water safety instincts and muscle memory development. Instructors stay with their classes for full quarters (rather than just passing levels), building strong relationships with students and understanding each child’s learning style, personality, and comfort level in the water. The natural learning cadence follows a school-year format with quarterly sessions and breaks between terms, rather than continuous monthly fees.

The clean, modern facility includes private changing areas with individual shower bays and handheld hair dryers, an air-conditioned viewing area for parents and siblings, ample deck space for parent observation, and a Swim Shop stocked with swimming essentials. The school offers both once-a-week and intensive four-day-per-week programs, with sibling discounts available for families with multiple swimmers. With a commitment to creating a fun, safe learning environment, Foss Swim School helps students develop confidence and competence in the water that will benefit them throughout their lives.