Has anyone ever had to remove a long time instructor from a class?
I just started a position as a Fitness Coordinator at a Senior facility. This aquatics instructor is very sweet, but we have recieved many complaints. She also is going through many physical issues and always tells us how she “needs to get in the water”. Her skill level is very low also and attendance in her class is low also. These are all reasons to pull her from the classes. We are looking at cutting back her schedule for Fall, but she will still have two time slots. Suggestions on how to handle this are welcome. I have some ideas, but hoping for clarification and other ideas!
That is unfortunate. I am of the opinion that the instructor should set the example as far as her health is concerned.
There are several things that are concerning with the description you’ve given.
1. It is not possible to teach aqua aerobics in the water. The participants can not see the movements.
2. Physically she is unable to teach the class. She’s not strong enough. The members are paying for a service and she is not able to effectively provide the service for which they are paying.
3. I like Karin’s idea about a plan for improvement. The dilemma with that is that the class numbers are low. Many have been turned off.
It seems that you are a compassionate person. However, if you have a different standard in treating this instructor, professionally it will send the wrong message to all the other group fitness instructors. That if they perform poorly there are no consequences.
Here is what I would do as a compassionate Fitness Coordinator.
If she is of value to the facility:
I would send two of my instructors to the Silver Sneakers workshop. The Silver Sneakers class is specifically for people over the age of 65. Perhaps that is the format she should be teaching. If you send two then they both can team teach. One seated, one standing.
If this not doable, unfortunately, you must let her go. The members have a right to quality services.
I wish you the best.