School’s out and summer is approaching, so that can only mean one thing: it’s pool time.
West Salem’s Swarthout Swimming Pool officially opened June 7, and there are plenty of opportunities to either learn, relax or have fun.
Located on Hamlin Street near the high school, open swimming will be Monday through Saturday 1:30 to 5 p.m. and 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. and Sunday 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.
Daily admissions will be $1 for youths in eighth grade or under and 50 cents for “waders” accompanied by a parent. Daily admission for high school students and adults will be $1.50.
Swimming season membership packages also are available. Single memberships for youths through eighth grade are $35 for West Salem School District residents and $50 for non-residents; single memberships for adults and high schoolers are $40 for residents and $50 for non-residents; and family memberships are $65 for residents and $95 for non-residents.
In addition to general swimming, there will be times set aside for family swim, adult lap swim, adult early risers and the swim team.
Family swim — offered Sunday from noon to 1:30 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday 8:30 to 9:30 p.m. — is a swimmer favorite because it gives families some time in the water without the commotion of many single swimmers.
Adult early risers — offered Monday through Friday 6 to 8 a.m. — and adult lap swim — offered Monday through Saturday 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. — essentially function the same way. These times are for high school students or adults who want to exercise or swim in the pool.
During swim team time — Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. — the pool is closed to non-swim team members. The swim team is open to those 8 years old through high school, and the team competes in about four meets, some of which are hosted by West Salem.
Swimming lessons also will be offered at Swarthout Swimming Pool. Swimming pool director Sam Ruud said about 1,200 youth attended lessons last year, and there are three sessions available with additional classes for pre-school children and adults.
Private pool rental is also available on Sundays from 6-8 pm. Proof of insurance is required, and the cost is $75 for a two-hour rental for up to 60 guests; additional guests will be assessed additional lifeguard costs.
Flotation devices are allowed at the pool but should be kept in the shallow end. The last day the pool is open is usually posted in late July. The pool will close as well due to inclement weather or if there are only a few swimmers.
Built in 1962, Swarthout Swimming Pool is operated by the school district. It continues to be a popular place to be when it’s open, averaging between 300 and 500 people a day during June and July.
For more information, call the pool at 786-0323 or e-mail Ruud at sruud@wsalem.k12.wi.us.

