During the Haverhill School Committee meeting on November 21, 2024, a significant proposal was discussed regarding the introduction of a comfort dog at Nettle Middle School. The initiative, presented by Principal Eileen Doherty and 6th and 7th grade ELA teacher Hannah Lawler, aims to address mental health challenges faced by students, including anxiety and depression, while also enhancing the school environment for both students and staff.

The proposal highlighted the potential benefits of having a comfort dog, which include fostering responsibility and empathy among students, as well as providing a calming presence that could improve teacher retention. Lawler shared her personal experience observing a comfort dog in a classroom setting, which inspired her to advocate for a similar program in Haverhill. She emphasized the positive impact such animals can have on student behavior and academic performance, citing research that supports the effectiveness of comfort dogs in educational settings.

Committee members expressed a mix of enthusiasm and concern regarding the implementation of the program. While many acknowledged the mental health benefits associated with comfort dogs, questions arose about logistics, including the dog's management during school hours, potential allergies among students, and the overall control of the animal within the classroom environment. Lawler assured the committee that the dog would be kept on a leash and under supervision at all times, with specific policies to ensure the safety and comfort of all students.

The discussion also touched on the experiences of other districts that have successfully integrated comfort dogs into their schools, with examples from Middleton and Redding, where the presence of therapy dogs has reportedly led to positive outcomes. The committee recognized the need for a formal policy governing the use of comfort dogs, which would be developed in conjunction with existing service dog policies.

As the meeting concluded, there was a consensus to move forward with the proposal, contingent upon the establishment of clear guidelines and policies. The timeline for acquiring and training the comfort dog is expected to align with the current school year, with hopes of having the dog in place by the end of the school year or early next year.

This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the importance of mental health support in schools and the innovative approaches being considered to enhance student well-being in Haverhill. The committee's commitment to refining the proposal indicates a proactive stance towards addressing the mental health needs of students in the community.