Oskaloosa School Welcomes Facility Dog to Boost Student Well-Being
Amid the bustling hallways and lively classrooms of Oskaloosa Elementary School in southeast Iowa, a new addition is set to make a significant impact on student well-being. Meet David, a vibrant yellow lab trained to be a certified facility dog. The arrival of David is part of a growing trend in school districts across Iowa that are recognizing the positive effects of having these specially trained canines on campus.
Sam Doll, a dedicated counselor at Oskaloosa Elementary, is eagerly preparing to be David’s handler. With a deep passion for helping students thrive, Doll believes in the transformative power of facility dogs in educational settings. She emphasizes the multitude of benefits these dogs bring, including improved attendance, enhanced self-esteem, and reduced learner anxiety.
Facility dogs like David undergo extensive training, equivalent to that of a service dog, to ensure they can effectively support students and staff. This week, David had a chance to explore Oskaloosa Elementary alongside his handlers from the Wyoming-based organization “K9s 4 Mobility.” During his visit, he had the opportunity to familiarize himself with the school building and interact with the staff and students, creating a warm and welcoming environment.
As David prepares to officially join the school community this spring, Doll is excited about the positive impact he will have. She shares her enthusiasm for the upcoming transition, highlighting the unique role David will play in various aspects of school life. From greeting students in the morning to supporting individual counseling sessions and classroom activities, David’s presence is expected to bring joy and comfort to all who interact with him.
One of the key initiatives Doll envisions is “Dining with David,” where students can enjoy a meal in the company of the friendly lab. Additionally, reading programs that involve students reading to David aim to reduce anxiety and create a relaxed learning environment. Facility dogs are trained to perform skill tasks that empower students, such as retrieving items, opening doors, and modeling positive behaviors, providing invaluable support in various educational settings.
Beyond the practical tasks they perform, facility dogs like David offer a sense of normalcy and comfort to students, making the school environment more welcoming and inclusive. Doll emphasizes that having a dog on campus can be particularly beneficial for students facing behavioral challenges, as well as boosting morale among staff members.
The cost of training and maintaining a facility dog is substantial, with each dog in the program requiring an investment of around $25,000. Fortunately, local corporate sponsors and the school district are stepping in to support this important initiative. Doll, who will be responsible for David’s daily care and well-being, is grateful for the opportunity to bring him into her home and the school community.
As David settles into his new role, Doll looks forward to the positive impact he will have on the students and staff at Oskaloosa Elementary. With plans to integrate him into various aspects of school life, including counseling sessions, classroom visits, and special programs, David’s presence promises to enrich the educational experience for everyone involved.
Facility dogs like David are becoming increasingly common in schools across Iowa, with many districts recognizing the value they bring to student well-being and academic success. By normalizing the presence of dogs in educational settings and harnessing their natural comforting abilities, these specially trained canines are making a meaningful difference in the lives of students and staff alike.
David will soon become a familiar and beloved face at Oskaloosa Elementary, providing support, comfort, and companionship to all who cross his path. As he embarks on this new chapter alongside Doll and the school community, his presence is sure to leave a lasting paw print on the hearts of those he encounters.
