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Board hears proposal to pilot Golden Retriever therapy visits at middle school
Summary
A resident proposed a no-cost Golden Retriever program for the middle school to support student relationships and wellness; the board expressed broad support and asked for a memorandum of understanding and operational details before approving implementation.
A resident and program proposer (Therapy-dog proposer) asked the Lead-Deadwood School District 40-1 board to support a pilot program that would bring a trained Golden Retriever into the middle school to help students build rapport and reduce anxiety.
The proposer said the program would not require district funds and that the city of Deadwood and local officials have signaled support. "It's a no cost investment to the school," the proposer told the board, adding that a memorandum of understanding would be created to clarify responsibilities, schedule and safety procedures.
Board members responded positively and asked for more operational details including the training certification, timing of visits and a proposed MOU between the dog—s owner, the city and the district. Several board members voiced support during discussion; no formal financial commitment was requested and the item was described as a community-supported pilot.
Next steps: the proposer said they would prepare additional information and an MOU for the board and staff to review. The board did not approve a formal program policy at the meeting but signaled it would consider a pilot once documentation and scheduling details are provided.
