As the spring days grow longer and the weather warms, thoughts of summer will start to swirl, bringing pool days and time spent around the water back into focus. Making sure your little ones are ready is important.

While swim lessons are often seen as a summer activity, spring is actually one of the most pivotal and often overlooked times for young children to start or rediscover swim lessons.

We sat down with our Aquatics Supervisor, Robert May, to talk about why beginning swim lessons in spring helps even the youngest of swimmers build confidence, comfort, and skills before summer fun begins.

Q. Why is spring an ideal time for young children to begin swim lessons?
Robert: “Spring is an ideal time to begin swim lessons because it gives young swimmers a valuable head start before the busy summer season arrives. Starting early allows beginners to build essential water‑safety skills at a comfortable, natural pace. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), drowning is a leading cause of unintentional injury-related death among children ages 1–4, which highlights how important early water safety skills are. With decades of experience serving families in our community and hundreds of swimmers taught each year, we’ve seen firsthand how spring starters tend to feel more confident and prepared. By establishing those skills in advance, children (and parents alike) head into summer feeling confident, prepared, and ready to enjoy the water safely.”

Q. What do swim lessons look like for young or first-time swimmers?
Robert: “Gurnee Park District’s Swim School strives to help swimmers feel comfortable and confident in the water while gently introducing foundational water‑safety skills through a proven, age-appropriate curriculum developed over years of instruction. Our Level One classes in both the “Little Swimmers” and “Learn to Swim” programs are designed to ease young swimmers into the learning process with developmentally appropriate steps. For our Little Swimmers, simple skills like blowing bubbles gradually lead to confidently submerging their heads underwater. Similarly, practicing front “ice cream scoop” motions on the wall builds the coordination needed for forward arm movement with the stroke bar for our Learn to Swim levels, setting students up for success as they progress.”

Q. How does learning in spring reduce stress for kids once summer arrives?
Robert: “Because spring flows right into summer, the skills children learn during this season stay fresh in their minds, making the transition into more frequent water time much easier and less stressful. Even if a child has taken lessons before, spring reinforces those essential water‑safety habits at just the right moment. For many of our campers, spring lessons also help them feel more prepared and confident for their summer camp swim assessments. Our instructors and even our Lifeguards at the Aquatic Center love seeing those little “aha” moments when swimmers/campers remember something from class and proudly use it on their own. Starting in spring gives children the confidence to enjoy the water safely, which is exactly what our program is designed to support.”

Q. How do swim lessons support a child’s confidence and independence?
Robert: “Swim lessons help build a child’s confidence and independence by giving them the chance to master new skills in a supportive and encouraging environment. As they progress, whether it’s putting their face in the water for the first time or completing a full stroke, they begin to recognize their own abilities and take pride in what they can do. And with small class sizes, our seasoned instructors are able to efficiently guide each step with patience and positive reinforcement, allowing students to feel safe while exploring their growing capabilities. Over time, these small victories add up, helping children move through the water with confidence and a sense of independence that extends far beyond the pool.”

Q. What skills should parents hope their child has before summer begins?
Robert: “Before summer begins, parents should hope their child has a strong foundation of basic water‑safety skills that help them feel comfortable and secure around the water. Skills like being able to safely enter and exit the pool, practicing controlled breathing, and feeling confident with supported floating can make a big difference once summertime swimming becomes more frequent. It’s also helpful for children to recognize simple safety rules, such as always waiting for an adult before getting in the water, so they develop safe habits early on. When children have these fundamentals in place, they’re better prepared to enjoy summer activities with confidence and awareness.”

Q. What’s one thing you wish more families knew about swim lessons?
Robert: “One thing I wish more families knew about swim lessons is how much confidence children gain simply by being in the water consistently. Even small steps, like remembering a skill from the previous week or trying something new with a little more bravery, build momentum that truly adds up over time. With thousands of successful swimmers graduating from our program over the years, we’ve seen how lessons create lasting comfort and safety around water. When families see how those moments of growth stack together, they realize swim lessons aren’t just an activity, they’re an investment in their child’s comfort, safety, and long-term confidence around the water.”

Make sure your child is ready for summer – enroll in our spring swim lessons sessions today!

Plan on fun and unlimited swims all summer long by purchasing your Hunt Club Park Aquatic Pool Passes today!

Behind-the-Trowel: Fall Planting Tips & Tricks with Katie Cook, Gurnee Park District’s Landscape Horticulturalist

If you’ve visited our facilities, we’re sure you’ve seen the amazing work of our talented Horticulturalist, Katie Cook, aka “Katie the Plant Lady”. Season after season, Katie ensures our spaces greet visitors with a beautiful blend of color, design, and a welcoming touch of cheer. Katie’s work is both thoughtful and meticulous, combining her passion for landscaping as well as her knowledge of plants to intricately lay out the stunning displays we all enjoy each season.

With fall approaching, we sat down with Katie to get a behind-the-scenes look at how she prepares for the season, including her favorite fall plants, design tips, fall planting strategies, and beginner-friendly ideas. Take a look!

Let’s start with the season ahead — fall!
Q: What makes fall such a good time to plant, and what should people focus on doing before the first frost?
Katie: “It depends on what you’re planting—spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils need to overwinter in cold temperatures as part of their life cycle, so fall is ideal. Early fall is also great for planting perennials, as cooler weather reduces watering needs while allowing roots to establish. For annuals, consider swapping out high-traffic areas with cool-season varieties for longer-lasting color.”

Your seasonal arrangements are always so striking.
Q: Which plants really shine in the fall garden that people might not think to use? Do you have favorite plant combinations for fall color and texture that hold up through the season?
Katie: “Traditionally, mums and ornamental cabbage are popular fall choices, though mums can be brittle and prone to breakage during planting. I like to mix in ornamental kale for its taller growth and lacy texture, which contrasts nicely with the leathery-leafed cabbage. Cool-weather flowers like osteospermum (African Daisys), violas, and pansies also add vibrant color and thrive well into fall.”

We know fall is also the time for tulip bulb planting!
Q: Any advice on how home gardeners can think ahead when planting bulbs?
Katie: “Be sure to read the directions on the packaging when buying bulbs so you know the plant’s height—for example, tulips that grow 10–12” shouldn’t be planted behind those that grow 18–24”. Tulips also bloom at different times; some bloom early with daffodils, while others bloom later. Knowing the bloom time helps when planning for summer annuals. Pro Tip: Make sure bulbs are planted 6–8” deep so squirrels don’t dig them out.”

Your attention to detail doesn’t go unnoticed.
Q: What are your must-have tools or tricks that make fall planting easier?
Katie: “Rototilling the soil will make fall planting easier, but if that’s not an option, using a manual claw or hoe works well for smaller areas. Adding organic material to the soil benefits all plantings. For bulbs, a drill attachment can be used to make individual planting holes.”

Finally, for those who want to bring a little of your magic to their own gardens —
Q: What’s one simple, beginner-friendly fall planting idea or project you’d recommend? Something low-effort with a big payoff?
Katie: “Making a planter or pot for the front of the house is a great way to add fall color without removing summer annuals that still look beautiful. I suggest mums and cabbage as the focal points, with dust miller around the edges as an underlying filler.”  

This summer, Owen Skoraczewski has been an outstanding member of the Gurnee Park District team, embodying the true meaning of SOFIE (Service, Ownership, Fun, Inclusion, and Excellence) in every aspect of his work. From taking initiative without being asked to solving problems without hesitation, and ensuring our parks are always clean, safe, and ready to welcome every visitor, Owen leads with an ownership mindset in all that he does.

Owen’s impact extends far beyond the tasks at hand. When a critical staffing gap occurred within his department, Owen stepped up and recruited four exceptional team members—each one personally recommended by him because he knew they would meet the high standards he holds for himself and for the organization. This not only demonstrated inclusion in action but also true leadership at its finest.

His approach to service is equally inspiring. Owen consistently treats everyone, from patrons to coworkers, with professionalism, respect, and a positive attitude that builds trust and elevates those around him. When you meet Owen, you can’t help but feel the joy, energy, and fun he brings to his work each day. He continually makes others feel welcome, supported, and part of something greater, making him the kind of employee residents remember and team members rely on. Owen leads with heart—and a downright contagious smile.

When it comes to excellence, Owen sets the bar high. No matter the task, whether prepping a field or maintaining a park, his work is thorough, efficient, and always completed with care and pride.

A perfect example of Owen’s dedication occurred earlier this season, when heavy rains left our baseball fields in poor condition just hours before a major youth baseball game. Without hesitation, and well beyond his scheduled hours, Owen stepped up to the plate (pun intended) to get the field game-ready. Because of his determination and willingness to help in any situation, the game went on as scheduled, giving the players a chance to take the field and make memories they’ll undoubtedly never forget.

It’s examples like this that highlight the kind of person Owen is: dependable, driven, and always ready to put others first.

With that said, it is our pleasure to recognize Owen Skoraczewski as the 2025 Seasonal Employee of the Year.

Please take a moment to congratulate Owen on this well-deserved achievement!

In honor of National Intern Day, we’re here to share more about our 2025 summer interns! They’ve been doing a lot of work in the Marketing and Recreation departments, including assisting with promotions and special events. They are excited to take what they have learned with us at Gurnee Park District to their future professional lives and beyond. We’re so excited to have them on the team!

Cynthia: Meet Cynthia, one of our Recreation Interns! Cynthia just graduated with her Bachelor’s in Data Science at Quinnipiac University in Connecticut and is returning this fall to pursue her MBA. Cynthia has enjoyed learning all about parks and recreation and has gained a lot of valuable knowledge throughout the summer. “I have loved my time at GPD, and it has been so exciting to be able to help plan so many amazing events and programs!”

Citizen: Meet Citizen, one of our Recreation interns! Citizen is from Lake Villa and will be a Junior at Illinois State University. He is majoring in Recreation and Sports Management. “I’ve really enjoyed being a part of the GPD recreation team and helping to lead and help run summer events!”

Ava: Meet Ava, our Marketing Intern! Ava is an Arts Management and Painting major at Miami University in Ohio and will be a senior in the fall. Ava’s time at GPD has been helpful in building her portfolio for grad school. “It’s been a lot of fun helping promote all our fun summer events! I love working behind the scenes and am grateful for the immersive learning experiences I’ve had.”

Sarah Beckmann is honored to be appointed to the Gurnee Park District Board and is excited to fulfill her desire to give back and serve the community she has lived in and loved for the past nine years.

Sarah credits the start of her teaching career to the many patrons and families she had the privilege of interacting with during her time working for a park district. She began as a camp counselor and later became a site director, where she discovered the joy of helping children grow socially and emotionally. Working as an after-school counselor deepened that connection. Sarah saw firsthand how meaningful consistency, patience, and structure are for kids. Even in smaller roles, like volunteering at birthday parties, leading days-off activities, and helping at the front desk, she built relationships with families and learned how deeply a positive presence within the park district can influence a child’s growth and sense of community. These experiences didn’t just shape her skills; they sparked her calling. The encouragement, conversations, and feedback from patrons and park district staff helped her realize that education, working with youth, and making a daily difference were where she belonged.

Because of everything the park district and its families have given to her, Sarah felt called to give back in a new way. She has seen firsthand how meaningful the district’s programs are, not just for kids but for entire families and neighborhoods. It’s where she found her purpose, developed as a leader, and began her path as an educator. Now, she wants to help shape and support those same opportunities for others. Serving on the Gurnee Park District Board is her way of continuing that cycle—giving back to the community that is helping raise her two children. Gurnee Park District holds a special place in her family’s life. Both her daughter and son have grown up enjoying its programs, which have provided not only fun and learning but also support during difficult times. After Sarah’s daughter experienced an accident, the park district became a true saving grace, offering her a sense of comfort, normalcy, and connection that helped her heal. Sarah’s husband has also been closely connected to the District. He interned there as a student, which was an experience that helped him launch his career and led to his current role with a neighboring district. That early opportunity shaped his professional path and deepened his commitment to public service. For Sarah and her family, the park district isn’t just a resource. It’s part of their family’s foundation. It has shaped their experiences, strengthened their bonds, and become a meaningful part of their everyday lives.

Welcome NEW Director of Business Services, Sumitra Potharazu!

Sumitra brings a wealth of experience in government finance, most recently serving as Controller for the Chicago Children’s Museum and prior to that as Finance Manager for the Fox River Valley Public Library District. She is a Certified Public Finance Officer (CPFO) and holds an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. Her career spans leadership roles in finance, education, and cultural preservation. She is very passionate about strategic and everyday financial operations as well as empowering teams to succeed.

As Director of Business Services, Sumitra will oversee our finance, Human Resources, and IT operations. “I am confident her knowledge, collaborative approach, and strategic mindset will take the Business Services Department to an even higher level,” shared Executive Director, Mike Szpylman.

Welcome to the Team, Sumitra!

Gurnee Park District is proud to introduce its newest Board of Commissioners member, Liz Nelson.

While Liz has only lived in Gurnee village limits since 2013, she grew up in nearby Wildwood and is a graduate of Warren Township High School, so the Gurnee area has always been home. Over the years, Liz and her family have taken advantage of Gurnee Park District programs, facilities, and events, from swim lessons, soccer, the Aquatic Center, and Families on the Fairway. Liz also has an adult son with special needs who participates in many programs of Warren Special Recreation Association (WSRA), of which Gurnee Park District is a contributing member.

As a new member of the Gurnee Park District Board of Commissioners, Liz is excited to bring her passion for inclusivity and equity as a lens for engagement, policies, and decision-making. Her experience in public health, budget management, community engagement, and government will be assets in her role as Commissioner.

Liz holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Western Illinois University. She has worked in the public health field for over 20 years at county and municipal levels in Lake County, Kenosha County, and the Village of Skokie. Liz recently transitioned to working for a nonprofit on affordable housing advocacy and is an active member of the “Live Well Lake County” coalition through this work.

In her free time, Liz enjoys going for walks in nature, cooking, live music, volunteering, and spending time with family and friends.

Among the many deserving candidates for our Full-Time Employee of the Year, one name stood out, receiving three separate nominations and ultimately earning a unanimous vote from both the SOFIE Committee and the Administration Team – Member Services Supervisor, Omayra Shofner.

Omayra has been an employee of Gurnee Park District since 2014. Over the years, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, dedication, and compassion, serving as a role model not only for her immediate team but for the District as a whole.

Since the inception of FitNation, Omayra has played a crucial role in connecting fitness to Gurnee residents and contributing meaningfully to the facility’s growth and success. When the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic threatened the fitness industry, Omayra provided extensive support to maintain operations while offering safe and secure options for members to continue their wellness journeys. Thanks to these efforts, FitNation has continued to grow, recently achieving over 5,000 members under her leadership and membership retention efforts.

Over the past year, Omayra embraced an even greater leadership role, taking on the supervision of Customer Service Operations at both Hunt Club Park Community Center and FitNation. She did so with grace and pride, fostering an empowering environment for staff and ensuring streamlined, high-quality service for customers. Her ability to lead with empathy, professionalism, and a solutions-focused mindset is deeply valued by both colleagues and customers alike.

Further, when it comes to assisting at special events, working extra hours to help cover shifts at the front desk, or organizing the Gurnee Days food vendors, Omayra is always ready to lend a hand. Not only is she willing to help, but she does so with a sense of joy, initiative, and dedication for her role, her teammates, and Gurnee Park District. Omayra’s empathy, understanding, and thoughtful follow-through do not go unnoticed, actively inspiring those around her to do the same through their daily actions and interactions. One nominator shared, “Two of Omayra’s most admirable qualities are her kindness and compassion. Her inclusive nature helps foster a sense of belonging within the team and community.”

With this said, we are proud to recognize Omayra Shofner as the recipient of this year’s SOFIE Full-Time Employee of the Year Award, in honor of her outstanding contributions, leadership, and lasting impact on our district.

Aimee Schneider has had an incredible journey with the Gurnee Park District, demonstrating unwavering dedication and passion for early childhood education for the past 18 years. Starting out in the Childcare Room at the Hunt Club Park Community Center, Aimee quickly proved to be a compassionate and reliable team member, always ensuring the children received the best care and attention. With a natural ability to connect with both children and parents, Aimee seamlessly transitioned into the role of a Growing Tree Preschool Teacher, where her creativity, patience, and skill in developing engaging educational activities made a lasting impact on young learners.

In her current position as the Early Childhood Coordinator, Aimee has demonstrated outstanding leadership, overseeing the growth of Growing Tree Preschool while maintaining the highest standards of care and education. Aimee is extremely efficient when it comes to shopping for preschool and camp programs. Her ability to budget effectively has been instrumental in continuing to provide a top-tier experience for both children and staff. Additionally, Aimee fosters strong communication with parents, keeping them informed of their child’s progress and always being available to discuss any concerns. She has become a trustworthy figure to the parents in Growing Tree Preschool, as well as her team members.

Aimee is a highly collaborative team member, always willing to go the extra mile – even coming in after hours to fix the laminator. She has been a part of multiple cross-departmental committees and meetings, consistently sharing ideas and best practices to improve Gurnee Park District policies and procedures. Notably, Aimee played an essential part in advocating for and implementing PTO for all part-time staff during her time as a committee member.

Aimee’s hard work, exceptional organizational skills, dedication, and continuous pursuit of elevating everything she does make her an invaluable part of not only Growing Tree Preschool, but Gurnee Park District as a whole. With this said, we are thrilled to recognize Aimee as this year’s recipient of the SOFIE Part-Time Employee of the Year Award.

As I sit down to write this final message as Executive Director of the Gurnee Park District, my mind is filled with memories that span nearly three decades. It’s hard to believe that 27 years have passed since I first joined the District. Now, as I prepare to retire on April 30, 2025, I find myself reflecting on the many moments, milestones, and meaningful connections that have shaped this incredible journey.

As a small child growing up in the southern part of India, I was not exposed to all that parks and recreation had to offer. Perhaps that’s why each new park we have developed or re-developed here in Gurnee has carried such a deep, personal meaning for me. Every playground filled with children’s laughter, every trail explored by families, and every community event has brought a sense of joy and fulfillment. I have been especially grateful to see my own children—Josh, Danny, and Jessica—experience firsthand the beauty of parks and recreation in this vibrant community.

Working and living in the same community for nearly three decades, I’ve had the honor of seeing Gurnee grow and transform. Through challenges and successes, this community has consistently shown its support, making my role as Executive Director both rewarding and enjoyable. My time here has been more than a career; it has been a way of life, one that has brought immense personal and professional growth. The connections, friendships, and memories I’ve built along the way will remain with me forever.

One of the greatest blessings in my career has been the opportunity to work with a dedicated Board and an exceptional team. The passion, creativity, and commitment they have shown are the backbone of the Gurnee Park District’s success. As I step away, I know that the District is in excellent hands. I am confident that the Board and the talented team in place will continue to carry the vision forward and keep improving the quality of life in Gurnee.

I am excited to announce that Michael “Mike” Szpylman will be taking over as the new Executive Director, effective May 1, 2025. Mike has been a vital part of our organization for 14 years, serving as the Director of Business Services. His dedication, expertise, and leadership have been instrumental in the District’s progress, and I am confident that under his guidance, the Gurnee Park District will continue to thrive.

Although I am retiring, I won’t be going far. My family and I plan to remain in Gurnee, watching the District grow and evolve. While my role may be changing, my love for this community and the memories built around it will always stay with me. Thank you for allowing me the opportunity to be a part of your lives and for sharing this journey with me. I am and will always be eternally grateful for your support and kindness.

With gratitude,

Susie Kuruvilla, CPA, CPRP