The WLCSD Board of Education meeting held on December 5, 2024, addressed several pressing issues, notably the welfare of Dakota, the district's therapy dog, and broader concerns regarding student safety and gender equity.

The meeting commenced with a public comment from a community member who shared a troubling account regarding Dakota. The speaker recounted that Dakota returned from training with burns on her neck, a situation corroborated by five individuals close to the dog. The speaker expressed strong opposition to the use of shock collars in training, labeling them as negative methods that contradict the positive training philosophy advocated for therapy dogs. They raised questions about Dakota's training, particularly given her reported heart murmur, and urged the board to reconsider the therapy dog program's practices, emphasizing the need for a more humane approach.

Following this, Gabby Tiago addressed the board, expressing frustration over the perceived prioritization of Dakota's situation over the safety and opportunities for female students in the district. Tiago highlighted the historical context of gender inequality, referencing Title IX and its impact on women's opportunities in education and sports. She criticized the board for focusing on policies that limit free speech rather than addressing the safety of girls in the district. Citing a recent United Nations report on violence against women and girls, she underscored the ongoing challenges faced by female athletes and the broader implications for young women in the community.

The discussions during the meeting reflected a community grappling with the balance between animal welfare and human safety, as well as the ongoing fight for gender equity in educational opportunities. The board's response to these concerns will likely shape future policies and community relations.