Comfort and Calm: The Role of Therapy Dogs in District 211

Bringing Comfort to Students

Some of Palatine-Schaumburg High School District 211’s newest therapists come with four paws. Thanks to a partnership with Comfort Dog Ministry, therapy dogs are frequently present in the district’s schools, offering an opportunity to relieve stress and provide comfort no matter the situation. Additional dogs owned and fully trained by staff are also part of the therapy team.

Students’ Reactions

Julia Amaro, a junior at Schaumburg High School, shared her experience, saying, ‘I couldn’t believe how much better I felt after just 20 minutes sitting by a dog. It really just made me feel more relaxed and like I had what I needed to get through the day well.’

Structured Support

At Schaumburg High School, the dogs are brought into empty classrooms for students to visit during lunch. They also accompany students at special events. Joyce Mariano from Student Services noted, ‘The effort is part of an overall focus on students’ emotional health, and more can still be done.’

Expanding Popularity

As the program grows in popularity, appointment slots for dog visits fill quickly, according to Ginger Haas, a social worker at the school.
At Conant High School, therapy dogs have participated in health fairs and are welcomed by Student Council at the start of the school year and prior to exams. Paula Hill, the department chair for guidance, stated, ‘There is always a crowd around them.’ Students and staff alike appreciate the dogs’ presence, with many noting that just a few minutes of petting the dogs can enhance focus.

Positive Observations

Miriam Castro, a counselor at Fremd High School, observed, ‘Just from observing the interactions, students are at ease. They are always happy to see the therapy dogs and it is always a huge hit.’

Conclusion

Therapy dogs have been implemented across various schools in District 211, contributing significantly to emotional wellness. Tessa Strzempek from Hoffman Estates High School remarked, ‘The dogs offer a nonjudgmental space where students can relax, take a break from academic pressure, and feel emotionally supported.’