In a recent meeting of the Lake Oswego School District 7J Board, discussions centered around the accessibility of the Lorac pool for student athletes and club swimmers, highlighting the ongoing challenges in balancing community needs with facility availability. Board members expressed their commitment to ensuring that high school swim teams have adequate access to the pool, which is crucial for their training and success.

The conversation revealed that the district has maintained a two-hour time slot for each high school swim team, despite the opening of a new pool. This consistency has raised concerns among parents and coaches about the limited availability for club swimmers, who also rely on the facility. Board members emphasized the importance of advocating for student access, noting that the district rents the pool from the city, similar to other clubs.

A key point raised was the need for better communication with city officials to prioritize student access over open swim times. Board members acknowledged the complexities of managing the pool's schedule, which also accommodates various community activities, including pickleball. They suggested that discussions with the city should include considerations for student athletes, particularly regarding prime training times before and after school.

The board's commitment to addressing these issues reflects a broader concern for community engagement and the importance of youth sports in fostering a healthy, active lifestyle. As the district continues to navigate these challenges, the emphasis remains on ensuring that all students have the opportunity to participate in swimming and other athletic programs.

Moving forward, the board plans to revisit the operational agreement with the city to advocate for a more equitable distribution of pool time, ensuring that both high school teams and club swimmers can thrive in their aquatic endeavors. The outcome of these discussions will be crucial for the future of student athletics in the Lake Oswego community.