Service dog spreads joy and “paws-itivity” at CVE

Man’s best friend has returned to Connoquenessing Valley Elementary (CVE) to provide additional support to students. Zach is a service dog that was graciously provided by the Souza family, parents from CVE. After training with teachers and staff members, this beautiful English Lab visited CVE twice a week during the end of the 2021-22 school year. Both students and staff members benefited from Zach’s calming presence and are thrilled to welcome him back.

“We are so thankful and excited to welcome Zach back to CVE to continue to support our sweet students! He brings joy, hope and extra love to those who visit him each day. The students truly look forward to “Zach time” each week. We hope to expand Zach’s impact to even more students in the future and are grateful for the Souza family for their continued generosity and support of such a beneficial program,” said Dr. Tina Wentz, acting principal of CVE.

A select group of students meet with Zach individually in the main office for 10-15 minutes where they are given the opportunity to give him treats, read to him, brush him or just enjoy cuddles. School officials said that Zach’s calm, loving and silly nature offers students a social-emotional outlet.

“Our school community is so grateful to the Souza family for sharing Zach with our students. Mr. and Mrs. Souza have provided not only the use of their service dog for our students but also dog treats, games, books and even a musical instrument that our sweet students can use to entertain Zach during their sessions. It is caring families like the Souza’s that make CVE the best place to learn and grow,” said DeeAnn Graham, principal of CVE.

CVE School Counselor Christina Karmecy added, “Zach has brought more love to our building, and the experience has been a win-win. He has provided our students with another avenue of strength and comfort. It is special how our community and school can come together to ensure our students build effective coping strategies.”