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Parks & Recreation

Show All Answers

1. How can I learn more about classes and programs?

There are several ways to explore current camps, classes and programs offered by Shaker Recreation.

• Visit the Programs section of our website for a general overview.
• Download and read the PDF version of the catalog, which is published three times a year (spring/summer, fall and winter) and mailed to Shaker residents.
• Browse our online catalog (select Catalog).

To keep up with what’s happening at Shaker Recreation, including announcements about upcoming programs:

• Follow our Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest news and events.
• Visit our Calendar to learn about upcoming events.
• Sign up for Rec ENews.

2. How do I register for programs?

There are three ways to sign up for any Recreation program, including camps.

• Online
• In-person: Thornton Park (3301 Warrensville Center Rd.) and/or Stephanie Tubbs Jones Community Building (3450 Lee Rd.). Proof of residency required: driver’s license, current utility bill, lease or purchase agreement. Existing pass or swipe card holders must present proof of residency on an annual basis in order to receive resident rates when purchasing new seasonal passes or swipe cards.
• Phone: 216-491-1295 or 216-491-1360. Have credit card information ready. All major credit cards are accepted.
• Registration Office Hours Thornton Park: Monday 8:30 am-5 pm, Tuesday-Friday 8:30 am-6 pm, Saturday 10 am-3 pm Stephanie Tubbs Jones Community Building: Monday-Friday 8:30 am-5 pm.

3. If I register late, are programs pro-rated?

Unfortunately, we do not pro-rate programs based on the time of enrollment. Some programs that are continuous have fees designed to allow for payment that is not affected by start dates.

4. I’m on a waiting list for a recreation program. When will I find out if you can accommodate my child?

If a spot opens up, you will receive a call from a Recreation Department staff member. You can also call Shaker Recreation at 216-491-1295 to check on your status.

5. I’m not sure where my program is located?

Program locations are published in the printed recreation catalog and in our online catalog. You can also call Shaker Recreation at 216-491-1295 for location information.

6. Where can I learn more about camps, including costs?

You can find detailed information and schedules for summer camps in the Winter Recreation Catalog, which is mailed to all residents in late winter. This information is also available in the online registration system (select Catalog, then Summer Camps). Visit the Summer Camp page for additional information. 

7. Is financial assistance available?

Yes, financial assistance is available through the funds listed below.

The City of Shaker Heights Recreation Department offers annual youth scholarships through the Lynn Ruffner Recreation for Youth Scholarship Fund. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and can be applied to our summer programs or camps. Applications for scholarships are available at Thornton Park after February 3, 2022. To make a donation, please call Cydney Johnson at 216-491-2580.

The Shaker Schools Foundation offers two scholarship opportunities that may assist with activities offered through the Shaker Heights Recreation Department. The Level The Playing Field Youth Sports Scholarships are for students in grades 1 - 12 enrolled in the Shaker Heights City School District, and provide support for any of the various Shaker Heights youth sports leagues at any recreation or travel level. The Beyond The Desk Enrichment Scholarships are for students in grades 5 - 12 enrolled in the Shaker Heights City School District, and provide financial assistance for participation in classes, camps, visual or performing arts groups, and more. For more information, visit the Shaker Schools Foundation website or call 216-295-4329.

8. What should my child bring to camp?

It depends on the camp. You will receive an email from your camp’s director before camp starts. In general, campers should bring water, a lunch (if an all-day camp), and sunscreen (if the camp is outdoors).

9. What’s the schedule for public skating at Thornton Park?

You can find current schedules at our Thornton Park Ice Arena page.

10. What are the admission fees for Thornton Park Ice Arena?

Find current admission and rental fees at our Thornton Park Ice Arena page.

11. Can non-residents skate at Thornton Park?

Yes. Find rates for non-residents at our Thornton Park Ice Arena page.

12. When is the Thornton Park pool open?

Thornton Park pool is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. During the season, you can find the pool schedule on the Thornton Park pool page of our website.

13. What are the admission fees for Thornton Park pool?

Check the Thornton Park pool page for admission fees. Note: Fee schedules are published in early January for the upcoming season. 

14. Are swim lessons offered?

From our popular American Red Cross swim lessons to pool-based wellness programs, our Aquatics Program has something for everyone. Visit our online catalog or download the recreation catalog (PDF) to view a list of current aquatics classes.  Private swim lessons are also available year-round. Contact the Recreation Department at 216-491-1295 to learn more.

15. What is the inclement weather policy?

Shaker Heights City Schools Closure

All Recreation Department activities held in school facilities will be cancelled. Thornton Park and the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Community Building will remain open and activities will proceed as scheduled. 

Shaker Heights City Schools Delayed Opening

Recreation Department activities within school facilities will operate on a normal schedule including Before Care programs. Thornton Park and the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Community Building will open on time.

City of Shaker Heights Building Closures

Thornton Park and the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Community Building will be closed and activities cancelled. 

City of Shaker Heights Delayed Building Openings

Thornton Park and the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Community Building will open on a delayed scheduled.

For information on closures and delays, refer to the City’s Facebook page, the Shaker Schools website, or local radio and TV stations.

16. What is the refund policy?

Refunds are available for class or program registration cancellations by registrants up to 3 business days prior to the first program meeting. A refund request must be completed. All refunds are subject to a processing fee based on the type of program. Please allow 2-4 weeks to process all claims.

All refunds are subject to a $10 processing fee. A $5 processing fee will be applied to Senior Programs. A $25 processing fee will be applied to Camps and Fall/Winter Hockey Program (Mighty Mites). A $125 processing fee will be applied to Fall/Winter Hockey Program (Bantam, Pee Wee, and Squirts).

17. View our Non-Endorsement Policy

The City of Shaker Heights does not necessarily endorse the opinions or business affiliations of the individuals who may teach recreation classes and programs.

18. What is the disability policy?

The City is committed to providing access to recreational programming for all. For individuals with special needs, please call 216-491-1295 for assistance from the appropriate Program Coordinator.

19. Why are classes sometimes cancelled? What other class policies are there?

The City of Shaker Heights may terminate a class with fewer than the required number of participants and provide a full refund/credit. Programs subject to change of location and/or personnel. Decisions to hold classes are based on enrollment 72 hours prior to first class; no refunds granted after second session except for injury or illness. (Doctor’s letter required.) Refund claim forms must be submitted 72 hours prior to the start of the first class. Special programs such camps and one-nighters handled on case-by-case basis.

20. Where can I get a catalog?

Recreation catalogs are published three times per year. Catalogs are mailed, at no charge, to residents of the Shaker City School District. Catalogs are also available at City Hall, Thornton Park, and the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Community Building. 

21. Can I kayak on the Shaker lakes?

The public is allowed to kayak on Lower Lake only and must launch from the Shaker Heights side of the lake. Launching on the Cleveland Heights side is prohibited.

22. Are there places to ice skate outdoors?

Yes! The City annually floods three pocket parks to create rinks for our residents use. Locations: corner of Fernway & Warrington, Southington & Woodbury, and Ashwood & Onaway. Bring your own skates.