Twenty years ago, Goldfish Swim School taught its very first swim lesson in its hometown of Birmingham, Michigan. Chris and Jenny McCuiston opened the school with a big, powerful mission: helping kids learn to swim, be safer in and around the water, and have a LOT of fun! 

What started right there in Birmingham has grown into something truly extraordinary, with Goldfish Swim School now being a part of more than 200 communities across North America. That means millions of little swimmers building confidence, learning life-saving skills, and creating memories that will last far beyond the pool!

Where the Story Began

Chris and Jenny dreamt up the idea of Goldfish around their kitchen table. With a background in swimming herself, Jenny was teaching swim lessons to kids in the community already, but quickly realized the demand was bigger than what she could handle on her own. She and Chris imagined a place where more kids could have access to swim lessons, in an environment that was perfectly curated for them. It would be a place where learning would feel exciting, real results would be accomplished, progress would be celebrated, and families would feel supported and welcome every step of the way. 

From the warm, shiver-free water to the bright, tropical environment, every detail was designed with kids and their families in mind. They wanted kids to feel comfortable and brave. They wanted parents to feel confident in their kids being there. And most of all, they wanted to help make water safety a part of every family’s lives. 

That vision was a hit in their community and before long, one school has become more than 200!

Chris and Jenny McCuiston founded Goldfish Swim School in Birmingham, MI, in 2006. Since then, it has grown to impact over 200 communities across North America.

A Ripple Effect Across North America

Over the past 20 years, Chris and Jenny’s dream has continued to grow. But the real story isn’t just in the number of schools; it’s found in the moments that are happening inside those schools every single day.

Toddlers are taking their first brave kick. A nervous swimmer is smiling proudly after accomplishing a new skill. A parent is watching and cheering from the viewing gallery as their little one swims independently for the first time. These are the moments that have made Goldfish what it is today. Each lesson is more than time in the pool; it’s confidence-building, trust growing, and life-saving skills taking shape.

The Impact That Matters Most

For Chris and Jenny, the mission has always been about impact. Every child who learns to float, every family that feels safer around water, every community that gains a place where kids can grow stronger and more confident. That’s what 20 years of Goldfish Swim School truly means. 

11 million swim lessons taught annually. Millions of memories made and millions of families supported. And perhaps most importantly, countless children are equipped with skills that can help keep them safer for life.

Celebrating 20 Years of Goldfish Swim School

As Goldfish Swim School celebrates this milestone anniversary, we’re also celebrating the incredible journey that Chris and Jenny began two decades ago. Their story is one of heart, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to families. 

Twenty years later, that same spirit still shines through in every splash, every smile, and every milestone moment in the pool. Because Goldfish has always been about more than swim lessons! 

Here’s to 20 years of splash-tastic memories, and many more to come!