MCS Expands Elementary Physical Activity Programming Through Ski and Swim Partnerships

MARGARETVILLE — Margaretville Central School is proud to announce the expansion of elementary physical activity opportunities through collaborative partnerships with Belleayre Mountain Ski Center, the Catskill Recreation Center, and the Town of Middletown Recreation Program.

This winter, students in grades 2 through 6 participated in a four-week ski program at Belleayre Mountain Ski Center.  Starting February 24, they are in a six-week Learn to Swim program held every Tuesday at the Catskill Recreation Center. In total, students will have access to ten consecutive weeks of structured physical activity programming.

“We are incredibly grateful for our community partnerships that make opportunities like this possible for our students,” said Jeremy Marks, Building Administrator for Student Activities and Operations. “By collaborating with Belleayre Mountain Ski Center, the Catskill Recreation Center, and the Town of Middletown Recreation Program, we are able to provide consistent, skill-based physical activity experiences that many of our students might not otherwise have access to.”

The swim component of the program focuses on foundational swim instruction, water safety, and confidence building. National safety data consistently shows that drowning remains one of the leading causes of accidental death among children, underscoring the importance of early swim education.

“This initiative is about more than recreation,” said Joy Holden, Principal of Margaretville Central School. “It is about wellness, confidence, and safety. By extending these opportunities to our elementary students, we are addressing a longstanding gap in after-school physical activity while equipping our children with lifelong skills.”

Margaretville Central School extends its sincere appreciation to Belleayre Mountain Ski Center, the Catskill Recreation Center, and the Town of Middletown for their shared commitment to supporting the health and development of local children.