Peterborough – Superintendent Kimberly Rizzo Saunders and Principal Larry Pimental are happy to share that Peterborough Elementary School has added a comfort dog to its team.
Charlie, a black lab puppy who serves as the school’s resident therapy dog, was introduced at an all-school assembly on Friday, December 9.
Once training is complete, Charlie will start attending school regularly later this winter.
The effort to bring therapy dogs to Peterborough began in 2019, with teacher Shannon Dunning and Pimental presenting to the school board in early 2020 and to the entire board last spring. took the lead. The school board then approved the pilot program to begin.
His presence is aimed at supporting the social and emotional health of students and providing comfort to those going through difficult moments.
“We have witnessed the positive impact that therapy dogs have on the school environment and we are thrilled to bring Charlie to Peterborough as a resource and friend to our entire school community.” “I would like to thank Shannon for pitching this idea and actively participating in making this program a reality.”
Charlie regularly visits classrooms and school activities and is available at Peterborough Elementary School. The school district is excited to see how the pilot progresses and whether it can be expanded to other her ConVal schools.
