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Parents, PTA and staff spotlight arts and facility‑dog program at Sweetwater Springs and Highlands
Summary
At the June 9 board meeting Sweetwater Springs and PTA reflections were showcased; public commenters from Positive Teams and Highlands Elementary described facility dogs in schools (23 dogs placed districtwide) and requested a district protocol to expand facility‑dog use for student support and reading interventions.
The board began its June 9 meeting with school spotlights and PTA reflections before hearing public comment from community members about facility dogs in schools.
A video and remarks from Sweetwater Springs Elementary highlighted family engagement events and student leadership. Christina Hicks, president of the Mount Helix Council PTA, introduced student reflections winners and announced next year's PTA reflections theme.
During public comment Mary Scrabbuka, facility dog program coordinator for Positive Teams, described the nonprofit’s more than 25‑year history and said Positive Teams has placed 23 facility dogs in community settings, including this district (two dogs currently in the La Mesa‑Spring Valley district). Elizabeth Batchman of Highlands Elementary described classroom uses for a facility dog named Wesley, relating specific classroom activities and a test‑anxiety example: "The rule is if you need to pet Wesley, go pet him. No more than three kids, 15 seconds, go," she said, noting teachers report improved student engagement and reading practice during visits.
Both speakers asked the district to develop a clear protocol for facility dogs, distinct from the existing service‑dog protocols, and provided informational materials. Board members thanked them and noted the request will be referred to appropriate staff for follow‑up.
Ending: staff will accept the materials and follow up on whether a district protocol for facility dogs can be created and how programs would be implemented and funded.
