Hi, I’m Mandy! I’m a passionate aquatics professional with over 17 years of experience in swim instruction, lifeguard training, and water safety program development. My journey began at 15 when I started teaching swim lessons at the local YMCA. Through dedication and a deep love for water safety, I worked my way up to Aquatics Director, expanding programs to reach and serve a diverse community.

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of coaching Special Olympics swim clubs, adult swim programs, and competitive youth swim teams while teaching swimmers of all ages and abilities. My goal is to create an inclusive, supportive environment where everyone can develop confidence in the water.

I believe swimming is a vital life skill, and I am dedicated to drowning prevention on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. I can’t wait to help you and your loved ones gain the skills to be safer and stronger swimmers. See you in the water—Happy Swimming!

I am Lauren Smith and I am a dedicated educator at Biloxi Upper Elementary and the Assistant Swim Coach at Biloxi High School. With over 10 years of experience teaching swim lessons and more than 15 years of lifeguarding, I am passionate about water safety and skill development. My background in both education and coaching allows me to connect with swimmers of all ages and abilities, creating a supportive and engaging learning environment. I look forward to working with individuals to help them achieve the life-saving skill of swimming, fostering confidence and safety in and around the water.

Hi, I’m Joseph Karner, and I’m excited to be a swim instructor here. I’ve spent the last three years lifeguarding, including one year as a Head Lifeguard (certified in Special Facility Aquatics), and I’ve also worked as an assistant lifeguard instructor.  I enjoy working with kids, and I believe swimming is a fantastic and fun activity. I think people learn best with a mix of demonstration and hands-on experience, and that’s the approach I take in my lessons. My goal is for my students to gain the satisfaction of knowing how to swim and the confidence that they’re learning in a safe environment.  I’m currently studying health science, focusing on pediatrics, but I enjoy working with adults as well. Outside of the pool, I’m really into snowboarding. I also serve as a Lifeguard Supervisor at Gulf Islands Waterpark. I’m looking forward to working with everybody!

Hi, I’m Jessica Wadler, and I’m a dedicated swim instructor with a passion for water safety and helping people of all ages enjoy the water. I bring a valuable 2 years of experience as a lifeguard, certified in Special Facility Aquatics. I’ve worked with a diverse range of students, from young children aged 3-12 to adults of all skill levels. I believe that learning is best achieved through hands-on experience, and I strive to create a comfortable and supportive learning environment. My primary goal is to ensure my students feel confident and secure in the water, free from panic. I hope my students will develop a strong appreciation for water safety, discover the joy of swimming, recognize its benefits as a great form of exercise, and most importantly, have fun! Outside of teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, lifeguarding, and participating in various water sports like tubing and knee boarding, as well as snow skiing. I also serve as a Lifeguard at Gulf Islands Water Park. I look forward to seeing you in the pool!