Meet the Swim Instructors

Rachelle Dell

Hi, I’m Rachelle! I’m a certified lifeguard and Water Safety Instructor, and I’ve been teaching swim lessons for over 25 years. I created a “play-based” swim program that helps students learn quickly and effectively, while having fun in the process! I truly love being in the water, and I bring that energy to every lesson. One of my strengths is being able to sense just how far a student can be gently pushed, which allows me to help even the most hesitant swimmers grow into confident, capable ones.

In addition to my swim background, I’m also a certified Elementary Teacher with a Master’s degree in Education and Psychology. I currently work in the University City School District as a Multilingual Specialist, and I bring the same patience and passion for learning into both the classroom and the pool.

Jenna Jarrett

Hi, I’m Jenna! I’ve been swimming all my life and absolutely love being in the water. I’ve competed on swim teams since I was little, and while I enjoy all four strokes, breaststroke has always been my favorite. What I love most about swimming is that there’s always room to grow and improve—I really enjoy working through challenges and pushing myself to get better. I also love working with kids and helping them feel comfortable in the water, build confidence, and reach their personal goals. I truly enjoy working with Ms. Rachelle at the U City Natatorium and love helping students develop strong, lifelong swimming skills.

Summer Barnes

Hi, I’m Summer! I have eight years of experience working as a lifeguard and swim instructor in both Illinois and Missouri. I’m certified in CPR/AED, first aid, and psychological first aid, and safety is always my top priority in and around the water.

I’ve had the opportunity to train directly under Rachelle Dell, learning her proven swim program. We use the same teaching methods, and I meet with her regularly to discuss student progress and ensure each swimmer is getting the support they need to grow and succeed.

I also swam competitively for many years and finished my final season on the varsity swim team at St. Joseph’s Academy in 2022. My love for the water continues as I study marine biology at the University of Miami in Florida, combining my passion for swimming with my interest in the ocean and aquatic life.

Kaity Hussey

Hello! My name is Kaity Hussey and I am a special education teacher for Special School District. I am a former swim coach for Francis Howell Central and have taught swimming lessons to students, friends, and families since 2011. It is a passion of mine to teach children how to be safe and comfortable in the water. I am familiar with teaching a wide variety of children how to be safe and learn how to swim comfortably. This includes medically fragile and other special needs children. I am very excited and looking forward to working with your child on any swimming skills/goals you would like them to work toward. 

Sydney Barnes

Hi, I’m Sydney Barnes! I’m a certified lifeguard with CPR training and have several years of experience working in aquatic environments, including a summer camp and a country club. I was also a competitive diver for four years during high school, which gave me a strong foundation in water safety and technique. Teaching swim lessons is something I genuinely enjoy—I love helping kids build confidence and skills in the water. This is my second year working with Rachelle, and I’m proud to teach using her proven swim lesson method because I’ve seen firsthand how effective it is!

Madison Andes


Hi! My name is Madison Andes, and I am currently a graduate student at Saint Louis University receiving a master’s in speech-language pathology. I competed on swim team as a young child and briefly in high school, and am certified in CPR/AED, first aid. I am passionate about working with kids and creating a safe and supportive environment for them to grow, learn, and have fun! I find it incredibly rewarding to watch kids grow in both their swimming skills and their self-confidence and I’m so glad to be working with Ms. Rachelle, as I truly believe in her philosophy of teaching. I am very excited for the opportunity to help your child meet their goals and develop confidence, strength, and a love for swimming along the way!