February 26, 2026, Seward Folly

The future of the Seward High School Pool is uncertain after the Kenai Peninsula Borough School District (KPBSD) announced plans to close all district pools due to budget constraints. Though the threat of closure has been discussed for years, this decision now appears likely to take effect.

Alaska’s public schools have faced ongoing financial pressures for the past five years, including increased costs and insufficient state funding. Community groups such as the Tsunami Swim Club, the Seward School PTA, and other pool users have advocated for keeping the Seward pool open. Last year, the district agreed to keep the pool operational for another year while seeking new funding solutions.

No specific financial alternatives were introduced at the recent budget meeting. According to a KPBSD news release, several organizations, including the City of Kenai, City of Seldovia, Ninilchik Community Council, Kachemak Swim Club, and City of Seward, have reached out to discuss the situation. The district stated it is “actively engaged in discussions with these and other interested partners to explore possible paths forward.” KPBSD estimates that closing the pools would save about $1.16 million annually, mostly from staffing, utilities, and equipment maintenance.

There is some confusion over the status of negotiations. Seward city officials report no discussions have begun, as they are waiting for detailed financial data from the past five years. At the budget meeting, Assistant Superintendent Dendurent said negotiations had started with Seward’s Assistant City Manager Jason Bickling, possibly referring to a presentation made to the city in December.

However, city administrators say no talks have officially started. The school district provided only three financial figures: five-year averages for expenses, revenue, and shortfalls. City officials say they need more detailed line-item data before they can present a proposal to the City Council.

The Tsunami Swim Club and Seward Schools PTA are also awaiting clarity. Tsunami Board President Sarah Tougas reports difficulty getting answers. While the club pays for lifeguards and pool rental, it does not believe it can raise enough money to operate the pool independently. The club, which has 62 swimmers this year, is unsure how its programs will be affected or what steps to take next. PTA President Ben Bohart has relayed information from the district to the city manager.

There has also been uncertainty about who will lead negotiations and communication. The district identified Mayor McClure as a contact in correspondence with a swim club parent, but the mayor clarified that pool negotiations are not within her responsibilities.

In addition, separate contracts are required for each pool. In Seward, any proposal must be assembled by city administrators and brought to the City Council for approval.

KPBSD announced that, without a funding solution, district-run pools will close effective June 30, 2026. The district says it remains committed to transparency, collaboration, and working with community partners toward a sustainable solution.

The Tsunami Swim Club continues to be active in the community, using the pool five days a week, sponsoring CPR classes, and planning a weight-lifting program. The club, which has produced an Olympic gold medalist, has at least three high-calibre swimmers planning to train this summer.