Silver Bear Swim School has taught more than 10,000 children how to swim since it launched in 2006. With locations across Nevada and Utah and more to come, Silver Bear offers foundational learn-to-swim basics, technique-based skills training and special abilities programs for children 6 months to 18 years old. By Lizzy Yeserski
Silver Bear Swim School has taught more than 10,000 children how to swim since it launched in 2006. With locations across Nevada and Utah and more to come, Silver Bear offers foundational learn-to-swim basics, technique-based skills training and special abilities programs for children 6 months to 18 years old.
“We’re in the business of helping people,” explained Jamie Proctor, site director and head of training for Silver Bear. “We’re also in the business of working with children. If you’re a person who likes to work with children, I don’t think there’s a more fun way than working with children while also getting to be in the pool.”
While positivity informs every aspect of Silver Bear Swim School, the team is serious about teaching water safety and boosting self-confidence for kids both inside and outside the pool.
“Our curriculum has been in development for almost 20 years, and we are constantly revising it and growing it,” said Proctor. “We have a very hands-on approach to swim lessons, so it’s not your average Red Cross lesson.”
Founders Tim and Katie Hall set out to create a happy place for children to learn how to swim that’s also a happy place for team members to come to work. They’re excited about spreading Silver Bear’s philosophy across the U.S. and sharing the company’s core values with new franchisees.
“If you’re looking for a great reason to get up every morning and get out of bed and make a difference, have a great personal life and make a good living, this is an approach for you,” said Tim.
For the Halls, serving the community is paramount, so the team seeks entrepreneurs passionate about making an impact.
“We want someone engaged who wants to spread the benefits of an aquatic childhood,” Tim said. “We always say, ‘We hire the smile, and we can train the rest.’”
To that end, owner-operators receive extensive training, from finding the right location to practicing the curriculum. When new franchisees join, they’re welcomed with open arms into the Silver Bear family.
“The Silver Bear phenomenon begins and ends with family,” said Tim.
Lizzy Yeserski