Mount Pleasant board adopts policy allowing approved therapy dogs to visit schools
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Summary
The board approved Policy 151 to permit approved handlers and therapy dogs to visit district schools; district staff explained the approval process for handlers and dogs.
The Mount Pleasant School Board on Oct. 21 approved Policy 151 to permit therapy or visitation dogs, accompanied by approved handlers, to come into district schools.
During a brief exchange, a board member asked whether the policy covers dogs brought by individuals who require a service animal; Dr. Gaybauer, speaking for district staff, said the policy is intended to allow district-approved handlers with dogs that meet the policy criteria to visit schools. "That dog with that handler then would be able to come into our schools," Dr. Gaybauer said.
Board members noted the dogs would complement curriculum and existing elementary programs led by district staff, and one member said a therapy dog seen by board members earlier helps with student engagement at events.
The policy was presented as a final version on the agenda (item 7.1). A motion to adopt Policy 151 was moved by Board member Veil, seconded by Board member Seeder, and approved by voice vote with no recorded opposition.
The board indicated the therapy-dog program would be coordinated with existing school curriculum and with building-level procedures; no additional funding details or protocol forms were discussed on the record during the meeting.