Chancellor Carranza Celebrates the Expansion of the Comfort Dog Program and the Launch of the Pre-Canine for All Training Program
45 schools currently participating in program, expected to grow to approximately 60 this year
QUEENS – Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza today celebrated the third consecutive year expanding the Comfort Dog program, which is now in 45 schools citywide and will be in approximately 60 by the end of the school year. He also celebrated the launch of Pre-Canine for All, a training program that helps new comfort dogs prepare to join school communities. Eight new dogs are participating in Pre-Canine for All this fall, and approximately 15 more dogs will join the program and participate in the training later this school year.
“Whether it’s a reading buddy or a warm welcome on a hard day, comfort dogs have an impact on school communities, contributing to students’ academic and social-emotional well-being,” said Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza. “This is an exciting and innovative program, and I’m thrilled that we’re expanding it.”
“We’re committed to serving the whole child, and the Comfort Dog program is a prime example of the creative ways in which we do that work,” said LaShawn Robinson, Deputy Chancellor for the Division of School Climate and Wellness. “Through positive, age-appropriate interactions and interventions, these dogs are changing school cultures and improving students’ school experiences.”
Comfort dogs enhance school culture and climate, working both in classroom and counseling settings to support students who have both mandated and at-risk counseling needs. Schools may also integrate the dogs into their crisis intervention and de-escalation practices.
All comfort dogs are rescued and identified for inclusion in the program by North Shore Animal League America. A staff member at each school adopts the dog and participates in mandatory Pre-Canine for All training led by an animal behavioral specialist. Through this training, school staff learn body language cues, safe dog handling techniques, and how to help their dog participate in social-emotional support and academic intervention games. Schools also receive ongoing support from the behavioral specialist.
“Comfort dogs enhance confidence, motivation, communication and so much more in our students,” said Kirsten Kinsella, Comfort Dog Behaviorist. “When I work with students, staff, and their school’s dog, I see firsthand the difference this program is making, and I look forward to working with more schools throughout the year.”
“North Shore Animal League America is excited to be working in partnership with the New York City Department of Education to provide classroom dogs,” said Jayne Vitale, Director of Outreach and Youth Programs at North Shore Animal League America. “NYC DOE has helped to shine a light on the great value of mixed breed pets – Mutt-i-grees, and at the same time enhance the lives of children, faculty and families. It has brought the importance of rescue and adoption to the forefront, and all the wonderful dogs waiting for loving homes at a shelter.”
“PS 81 is a marvelous school that will love their comfort dog,” said Assembly Member Catherine Nolan, Chair of the Assembly Education Committee. “In Ridgewood many people cannot have a dog in a small apartment; this will give children an opportunity to experience a great relationship.”
“The Comfort Dog Program helps students build their emotional intelligence and overall provides an innovative way to engage them throughout the school year with a friendly companion,” said Assembly Member Michael Miller. “I’m happy to see this program being expanded into more schools and into my district.”
“Successful schools don’t stop by just providing a comprehensive academic education for each student, they also ensure that students are well prepared for life both mentally and emotionally by providing programs that help enhance student’s well-being,” said Assembly Member David I. Weprin. “It’s great to see that Schools Chancellor Richard A. Carranza is continuing and expanding this wonderful program for our students.”
“I am pleased to see the expansion of the comfort dog and Pre-Canine for All training programs, which help to address the social and emotional health of students with specific counseling needs,” said Council Member Barry S. Grodenchik. “Students at PS 224Q, located within the district that I represent, will soon benefit from these valuable programs.”
The names and schools of the eight new dogs are:
Brooklyn
Bailey, MS 88
Bronx
Bailey, Jonas Bronck Academy
Harper, PS 209
Manhattan
Parker, PS 79
Coral, Pace High School
Queens
Cypress, PS 81
Lady, PS 22
Delight, PS 224
YEAR 2 AND YEAR 3 COMFORT DOGS SCHOOLS
Brooklyn
PS 23
Brooklyn Transition Center
Park Place Community Middle School
MS 88
Brooklyn Brownstone School
New Bridges Elementary
PS 90
PS 231
PS 200
Shell Bank Junior High School
Abraham Lincoln High School
PS 185
The School of Journalism & Technology
Bronx
Academy of Applied Mathematics and Technology
PS/MS 4
PS 70
PS 204
Bronx Park Middle School
PS 176
Manhattan
PS 267
Lower Manhattan Community Middle School
PS 75
PS 145
PS 102
Professor Juan Bosch Public School
Queens
PS 75
Corona Arts and Sciences Academy
PS 120
P.S. 209
PS 76
The Riverview School
IS 204
Staten Island
PS 1 Tottenville
IS 7 Elias Bernstein
PS 22
The Michael J. Petrides School
Staten Island Technical High School
Staten Island School of Civic Leadership
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