Meet The Team of Palekana Swim!
Swim Instructor , ISR Self-Rescue™ Certified Instructor
Matt Lowell, Owner
Welcome! My name is Matt Lowell. I started working as a swim instructor and lifeguard at age 15 and have been passionate about helping kids learn and stay safe in the water ever since. I grew up in the Portland area and now live in Beaverton, OR with my wife Katherine and our three kids Theo (7), Benji (5) & Bella (2). When Katherine and I became parents, we knew we wanted to do everything possible to ensure our kids were safe around the water, so we did some research and decided to enroll our oldest two at that time in ISR lessons when they were 1 and 3 years old. It was amazing to see the skills and independence they were able to learn at such young ages, and it inspired me to train as an ISR instructor myself to share that feeling of confidence with other parents in the community. In addition to ISR instruction, I also offer traditional swim lessons for children of all ages, building on my experience during the previous 13+ years teaching at THPRD, VillaSport, and as an independent instructor. I’d love to help your kids feel comfortable and confident in the water!
Operations Manager
Katherine Lowell, Owner
Hello, I am Katherine Lowell. I keep things running smoothly at Palekana Swim, including helping parents with scheduling, enrollment, and any questions they might have. I work behind the scenes managing everything from marketing to pool maintenance, while also taking care of our three kids as a stay at home mom. I look forward to getting to know you and appreciate your support of our family business!
Swim Instructor
Sidney
Hello! My name is Sidney, and I’m originally from Billings, Montana.
I’ve worked with children in many settings — from teaching swim lessons to coaching competitive cheerleading for 6 years, and currently as an after-school program teacher. I love helping kids build confidence through movement and skill, and I’m passionate about creating a positive and supportive environment where they can thrive.
My favorite swim stroke is backstroke, and when I’m not in the pool, I enjoy reading and spending time outside with my dogs. I’m so excited to be part of the Palekana Swim team and can’t wait to work with your child in the water!
Swim Instructor
Trinity
Hi! My name is Trinity Stephens, and I am from Portland, Oregon.
I have been swimming for over a decade and teaching on and off these past few years. My favorite stroke is Butterfly; even though it can be challenging at times, the feeling of accomplishment at the end of the set is all worth it! My favorite memories of swimming stem from my friendships on my high school swim team. Swimming in relays with my friends and cheering each other on at the top of our lungs will forever be something I remember fondly.
I am currently studying biochemistry at Portland State University. I am very passionate not only about water safety and confidence, but also about confidence in the classroom, especially in STEM fields. Working with kids in and out of the pool has taught me so much about myself and so much about how kids really love to learn! The ability to be a part of their learning experience and to see them grow and persevere means so much to me as an educator. Outside of the water, I am usually hiking, doing crafts, or studying.
Swim Instructor & Swim Team Coach
Jessica
Hi! My name is Jessica and I’m from Portland, Oregon.
I’m currently heading into my sophomore year at the University of Arizona, where I’m studying Accounting. I swam competitively in club for 11 years, and the friendships and memories I’ve made through swimming have truly shaped my life.
I began coaching swim team and later started teaching swim lessons as well. Being able to do both has helped me create a fun and encouraging space where kids can learn and grow through a sport that means so much to me.
I love swimming anything distance, and recently competed in the 400 IM at College Club Swimming Nationals! Outside the pool, I enjoy doing puzzles and spending time outdoors. I’m excited to meet your swimmer and help them build confidence in the water!