READing PAWS

The READing Paws program brings specially trained therapy dog and handler teams into schools to support children’s literacy development, and this year marks our fourth year partnering with READing Paws. As a nationally recognized affiliate of the Reading Education Assistance Dogs® initiative, READing Paws creates a safe, calm, and non-judgmental environment where students can practice decoding, fluency, and reading accuracy. The gentle dogs and their volunteer handlers help transform reading into a positive, confidence-building experience for young learners.

Our first through fourth-grade students eagerly look forward to the monthly READing Paws visits. Each student chooses a short story to read aloud to a very cute, patient, and sweet dog, making reading feel fun and stress-free. The dogs' supportive presence encourages students to take risks, build confidence, and strengthen their reading skills, which is why this partnership continues to be a favorite and a meaningful part of our literacy program year after year.