Jefferson Elementary School in Ottawa would be one of the schools getting a therapy dog through the United Way of Eastern LaSalle County. Principal Nate Pinter says there are many benefits. Some include reducing stress and teaching empathy and appropriate interpersonal skills.
Pinter says eleven percent of students at Jefferson have been identified as at risk for social and emotional functioning. Social Worker Alecia Ruiz says it’s the highest it’s been in the school. Pinter says the dog would be a golden doodle and will be fostered either by himself or her. He also says parents in the district will be notified and will have to sign a permission slip so their child can be around the dog.
The Ottawa Elementary School Board still has to vote on it and could at the next school board meeting.