Director's School Details
What is Director's School?
AOAP Director's School offers a premier aquatics training experience, built on the unparalleled expertise of its faculty. This multi-year program features highly experienced and recognized leaders from across the aquatics industry, ensuring attendees receive comprehensive, high-quality instruction.
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Topics covered will include risk management, aquatics advocacy, inclusivity, staff retention and training, operations and programming, leadership and sustainability.Â
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In addition to meeting a cohort group and making lasting friendships, all levels of Director's School include 1.5 CEUs, and students who complete Year 3 also qualify to sit for their AqP Final Exam at no additional charge!
2027 Details
Held in conjunction with the International Aquatics and Water Safety Conference & Expo in Reno, Nevada!
Thursday, February 11 | 1 - 5 pm -Â Friday, February 12 | 8 am - 5 pm -Â Saturday, February 13 | 8 - 11 am
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$509 / AOAP Member or $619 for Non-Members
Includes 1.5 CEUs plus Thursday dinner, light lunch on Friday and Saturday breakfast.
Meet Craig Merkey
After being involved in AOAP since it's inception, Craig joined the AOAP Board of Directors in 2019 including serving as the Board President during the 2024-25 term. He was instrumental in making the dream of a leadership academy a reality and was a key part of it's development and success.Â
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But Craig was more than a devoted Board Member: he was a true friend, a passionate advocate for aquatic safety, and someone whose generous spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of working with him. His countless contributions to AOAP, including his tireless efforts with our silent auction and his unwavering support for our mission, have made a lasting impact on our organization and the people we serve.
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Craig’s warmth, kindness, and commitment to excellence were evident in everything he did. He inspired those around him with his positivity and his genuine care for others. Director’s School honors his legacy, and we hope that every attendee can carry Craig’s spirit into their work to make aquatics - and the world - a better place.