The Water Awareness program began over 20 years ago when Albany philanthropist Doris Scharpf, began conversations with the district about water safety for young people. As an avid user of the Albany Community Pool, Doris believed that every student should know how to swim.

Currently, all 3rd and 4th grade students in the Greater Albany Public School District are taught water safety at the Albany Community Pool. This program is funded through the generosity of donors, the Doris and Bill Scharpf Endowment through the Albany Public Schools Foundation and Albany Parks and Recreation.