Policies
Requirements – The only requirements to start lessons with the OrcaKids Swim School are that the swimmer must be 3 years of age and be potty-trained. We do not allow diapers of any kind in the water! Children older than 8 years old must have previous lesson experience. Swimmers must be willing to enter the water with an instructor.
Make-Up Sessions – The OrcaKids Swim School does not allow any make-up sessions for missed classes! We try very hard to keep our class sizes small. It is not fair to the other swimmers to increase their class size in order to allow another student to make-up a class. Still, we try our best to teach all of the skills to everyone, regardless of how often they attend class. Please keep in mind, however, that consistently coming to class is the best way to advance.
Payment – After you complete registration, you have the option of paying via PayPal or by check. Payment must be received within 7 days, or your child's spot will be released. Please mail checks to: OrcaKids Swim School, 1550 7th Ave NE, Rochester, MN 55906.
Refunds – The OrcaKids Swim School does not offer refunds. The fees that you pay with your registration hold your spot in a class.
Class Schedule – The schedule for each session is always subject to change based on various factors, including but not limited to facility scheduling, inclement weather, and/or staffing availability. We do our best to keep our schedule as published, but we do have occasional schedule changes. Schedule changes will be sent by e-mail and posted on this website.
New Swimmer Evaluations – Evaluations to determine the level of your child will be held shortly prior to the first class. These evaluations are for any new swimmer and for any swimmer who has not been with us for the last few months. Swimmers should bring a swimsuit, towel and goggles if they want them. They will be observed in the water and placed in the proper class level. This will only take a few minutes. The date for New Swimmer Evaluations will listed on the schedule when you register. If you are unable to attend the scheduled time, please e-mail This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule an alternate evaluation time.
Goggles & Caps – We strongly encourage your child to wear goggles during their swim lessons. Young children need goggles that fit their eyes. We have appropriate goggles available for purchase if you would like. You can request goggles during registration for $9 per pair. You can pick up goggles you order at New Swimmer Evaluations or on the first day of class. We also require that swimmers with long hair have it in a tight ponytail for lessons. It is hard to swim if they have their hair in their face. If you would like to purchase a swim cap, you may do that also.