TESTING FOR RIBBONS

When will my swimmer be tested for their ribbon? At LPB, the teachers assess their students on every swim. By watching them, we know if we need to challenge students more or give them more support. This constant assessment of students is the same as “testing” them. Essentially, they are always being tested. When they are capable of performing all of the skills for a ribbon, it is awarded. In addition, students are typically able to do some of the skills needed to earn the ribbon before others. So, our lesson plans include future skills. We begin introducing skills for future ribbons based on the ability of each student, and when they show readiness to learn them. This keeps students challenged and learning as they work through the ribbon system.

When my swimmer earns a ribbon, do they have to move to a different class? Because we group students by age and ability, they often progress together. Many times if your child earns a ribbon, they do not need to move. As stated above, the class lesson plans include future skills to accomodate the needs of each student. If the teacher and deck feel that your child would benefit by switching classes, they will talk with you about finding a new class.