Board reviews proposed policy to allow therapy animals in schools; no action taken

Administrators presented a draft policy broadening the district’s approach to therapy animals. Under the proposal, trained therapy animals—primarily dogs, with miniature horses and service animals discussed separately—could be present in school buildings to provide emotional support to students and staff when approved by building principals. Presenters emphasized that owners would be responsible for insurance and certification costs, the animals would be non-reactive and certified, and participation would be limited to a small number per building.

The district distinguished these therapy animals from service animals that are permitted under a student’s IEP or 504 plan; administrators reiterated that service animals performing a medical function have a distinct status and are not part of the proposed policy change. Trustees asked how many animals might be allowed, whether the district would pay for handlers or animals (administrators said no), and how the program would be managed. Administrators said principals would approve requests and staff would consult with central office as needed. No motion was made; the item was informational and slated for further review before any formal adoption.

Board members and administrators noted examples from other districts that have used therapy animals to support students facing difficult circumstances; trustees requested that any policy include clear approval steps, certification requirements and limits on how many animals may be in any one building at a time.