About Laurie

Laurie is a certified Water Safety Instructor known for her way of engaging students with encouraging support, clear strategies, and humor. She has a decade of lifeguarding and swim instruction experience in open water and pool settings. Laurie has a background in education, Division I collegiate athletics, coaching, and performing arts. She has a BA in English and Education and an MA from Columbia University grounded in equity based literacy. In addition to teaching and coaching in Italy, Virginia, California, and New York, Laurie has supported schools across the country and internationally.

Laurie's heart work includes helping people of all ages feel heard, loved, and empowered to enjoy all that water has to offer. Grounded in Liz Parry's play-based instructional program, she provides supportive, and personally meaningful lessons to swimmers across age groups. 

​Swim Qualifications