by Conner Sura
After nearly a decade, St. Joseph Kennedy Community School once again has a furry friend in its hallways and classrooms.
The furry friend is a therapy dog named Watson.
Kennedy Principal Anna Willhite managed to get the dog, thanks to her collaborative effort with the non-profit organization “You Are Not Alone.”
When Willhite first joined the St. Cloud School District, to which Kennedy school belongs, there was a therapy-dog program to help students. Willhite remembers the positive impact therapy dogs had on students.
“They provided comfort and companionship and helped students express their needs to be successful,” she said.
Unfortunately, their previous therapy dog grew too old to continue working. Kennedy had to discontinue the program until “You Are Not Alone” approached the school district this year. They were offering a new opportunity for a therapy dog. When Willhite learned about the program, she immediately said yes.
“You Are Not Alone” is a non-profit organization in Minnesota, initially based in Monticello. It has worked with several schools in central Minnesota. Founded by Amy Walz, its mission is to help others by supporting whole-person health and well-being by partnering with Minnesota schools to promote students’ and staff’s mental-health wellness. “You Are Not Alone” also provides resources to teach strategies to combat bullying and other stressors while educating students on the amazing gifts animals can bring to their lives.
Watson, the new furry staffer, arrives at school every Thursday at 10 a.m. and visits with students until noon. Watson visits only those students whose school counselors and parents have approved.
Willhite told the Newsleaders about the sheer delight and excitement of the students whom Watson visits. Their needs are being met, and they are so happy with the new therapy dog, she noted.
After Watson finishes his day, he returns home to his handler until the following Thursday.
The return of a therapy dog to Kennedy Community School is a welcome addition, helping to bolster a welcoming and caring learning environment for its students.
Watson is the new therapy dog at Kennedy Community School in St. Joseph.
