Apr 6, 2015 2 min read

I am a Trinity High School senior writing in response to the Trinity school board’s decision to cut swimming and music instruction at the middle school and high school.

As a six-year member of Trinity’s swim team, I have grown as a swimmer because of the program. I would be absolutely devastated and ashamed to see an end to such a wonderful program.

When I was in elementary school, basketball was a big part of my life. However, it all changed in fourth grade, when I began to experience a burning pain in my feet. After two long, agonizing years of medical tests, I was finally diagnosed with a rare blood vessel disorder known as erythromelalgia.

I knew that my basketball career had come to an end, but I did not let some rare disorder deplete the athlete in me. In the sixth grade, I began swimming classes at the middle school. I found that I enjoyed being in the water, and picked up on swimming quickly, so I decided to join the swim team the following year. Ever since then, swimming has allowed me to continue to be an athlete, because the water keeps me cool and off my feet. Furthermore, I have decided to put my skills to use and become a certified lifeguard.

Without Trinity’s swimming program, I would not possess the skills I do today.

Although my high school swimming career has come to an end, it will leave a lasting impact on my life. I am disappointed to see this program cut. The decision was inconsiderate, unjustified, and wrong.

Shani Quarture

Washington