We are excited to introduce you to the newest team member who will be joining us this school year as a therapy dog. Remi is a two year old Great Pyrenees who has recently passed the AKC Canine Good Citizen and therapy dog training and is excited to be a part of the RayPec community. The addition of Remi to our staff aligns with our district’s strategic goals to positively impact the well-being and mental health of our students and staff.
There may be several questions as to how this may work within the building; below is some information we have researched and gathered.
What are the Benefits of Having a Therapy Dog at School?
Provides a calming effect on students and reduces stress
Improves concentration, self-esteem and self-confidence
Fosters a sense of responsibility among students
Improves student attendance
Helps build confidence in reading and improves overall literacy skills
Stimulates memory, problem-solving and game playing
Improves socialization skills
Teaches compassion and empathy
Encourages respect, thereby improving relationship building skills
Encourages expression, participation and shared attention
Improves gross motor skills
Concerns and Considerations
Remi will only interact with students/staff who want to work with her. This is to be mindful of those who may not like dogs or have a fear of them. Research has shown that work with therapy dogs often decreases one’s fear of dogs.
Students will not be left unsupervised with Remi.
Remi will wear a collar when on school grounds and be supervised at all times. She will also wear a vest when on duty.
The introduction of Remi to the school will not be a distraction to student learning, but rather an enhancement.
Remi lives with Jennifer Ramirez family on a full-time basis. She is, and always will be, up-to-date on vaccinations and grooming. The District maintains these records.
Remi will have access to water and be given opportunities to be brought outside for bathroom breaks during the day. Remi’s designated area is Jennifer’s office.
Remi will be fed before and after coming to school. Students should not bring treats.
Remi will be provided a place to rest and toys to play with.
Remi has begun being acclimated to the building.
All staff will go through training during back to school days leading up to the school year, and students will go through training with Remi during advisory time once they return.
We are excited to welcome Remi to the Ray-Pec Academy team and believe that her influence will be a positive one for staff and students. If you have additional questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. Thank you for your continued support. Remi looks forward to seeing you in the building following Convocation on Aug 13th. As some of you may come and go setting things up prior to this date, please know Remi may be in the building as she continues to be acclimated to her new routine/job duties.