The Beasley Academic Center on Chicago's South Side announced the reopening of its swimming pool this fall after a $1.5 million restoration project. The renovation, completed in time for the 2026 school year, also brought on new instructional staff to restart swim lessons for elementary students.
The pool, long regarded as a scarce amenity among Chicago's public elementary schools, underwent extensive repairs that addressed structural concerns, updated filtration systems, and refreshed surrounding locker areas. District officials allocated the $1.5 million budget to ensure the facility meets current safety standards and can support regular instructional use.
With the refurbishment finalized, the school has hired a team of certified swim instructors to lead lessons beginning in September. The program aims to provide all students at Beasley Academic Center with access to water safety education and basic swimming skills, a service that few other elementary schools in the city can offer.
The reopening marks a significant addition to the district's extracurricular and health resources. By restoring a pool that had been out of service for several years, the school not only expands its physical‑education curriculum but also creates a community venue for after‑school activities and potential neighborhood events.
Local education leaders highlighted the importance of maintaining such facilities, noting that swimming proficiency can reduce accidental drownings and promote lifelong fitness. The Beasley Academic Center’s pool, now operational again, stands as one of the few elementary‑school pools remaining in Chicago, underscoring its role as a unique asset for students and families in the South Side area.
Parents and students are expected to enroll in the upcoming swim classes as the school prepares to integrate the pool fully into its fall schedule, offering a rare opportunity for young learners to develop confidence and competence in the water.