New therapy dogs greet students
Therapy dogs and their handlers (left to right):
Mrs. Loralee Reda, English 9-10 & Goober
Ms. Cathy Schmider, K-6 Counselor & Lucy
Mrs. Susan Bitonti, Grade 2 & Bocci
Dr. Laura Jacob, Superintendent & Kona and Londy
Mr. Joshua Pollock, 7-12 Principal & Charlie
Mrs. Dana Fowler, Title I & Leroy
Mrs. Marcy Bebout, Director of Student Services & Spencer
Mrs. Jennifer Edwards, English 7, and Miss Nora Edwards & Hank
Through grant funding, the faculty/staff of the California Area School District are helping to make a more “pawsitive” culture and climate for our kids. Through a partnership with Off Leash K-9 Training and Therapy Dogs United, there will be nearly a dozen resident therapy dogs in our district this upcoming year.
Research shows that animal assisted interventions, education and therapy are beneficial to student success, builds confidence, increases literacy skills and creates a positive climate/culture.