In the wake of Covid, school shootings and social media pressures, students are under a tremendous amount of stress.
Behavior issues, social emotional problems, and attendance issues are very common in today’s environment. Therapy animals help provide some relief.
Studies have shown that they build empathy skills, reduce stress and provide feelings of calmness. Therapy animals also help build rapport between the student an the adult working with them. They can also provide a reason for some students to look forward to coming to school.
“It is my hope that Bella will provide that extra support needed for all children in our building, especially the ones that have specific social emotional needs,” said Monticello Intermediate School Counselor Regina Lanehart. “It is also my hope that we see an increase in attendance, and a more positive welcoming school climate and culture.”
On the recommendation of the Superintendent and Principal, the Monticello School Board voted to all the Counselor to bring Bella, a Golden Retriever, certified therapy animal through Pet Partners, to the school a couple of days a week to assist students with social emotional issues and to use inside and outside of the regular classroom.
Time with Bella may be used for a reward for good behavior, calming students before a tests and more.
Students must have gone through training on what to expect with Bella and have parent permission to participate.
