The therapy dog program was introduced as a initiative within the St. Cloud schools. This program, detailed by Shannon Avenson and Amy Tyson Walls, has grown from a single school with one dog to an impressive 23 schools, with plans to extend further. Tyson Walls, a therapy dog advocate, shared her personal journey with mental health challenges and emphasized the transformative impact therapy dogs had on her family, notably highlighting her son’s recovery from a suicide attempt through the companionship of a therapy dog. The dogs, such as Willow Grace, have facilitated essential conversations about mental health, helping students feel less isolated.

The presentation included testimonials from students and staff, highlighting the dogs’ ability to brighten moods and open dialogues. For instance, one staff member at South Junior High recounted how a chocolate lab named Hunter positively influenced both students and staff. The program’s expansion into 42 schools nationwide, including Providence, Rhode Island, was also noted, stressing the non-financial burden on school budgets since therapy dog teams volunteer their time.

Challenges, such as the need for more therapy dog teams and financial support, were discussed. Tyson Walls called for community partnerships to further the program’s reach, emphasizing its significant impact on over 16,000 students since 2021. The initiative’s growth and the introduction of support materials, like bracelets with messages, aimed to reinforce the program’s message that no one is alone in their struggles.

In addition to the therapy dog program, the board discussed updates to middle-level courses for the upcoming school year. Dr. Jason Harris and Hillary Johnson presented curriculum changes for grades six through eight, emphasizing exploration and the discovery of personal interests. The updates included the continuation of world language immersion programs and the introduction of practical projects, such as constructing sellable structures to fund programs.

A new course, Allied, will be mandatory for seventh graders, focusing on foundational education in technology and problem-solving, with a particular emphasis on AI literacy. Concerns about the adequacy of a single AI unit were raised, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to responsible AI use across subjects. The curriculum aims to prepare students for rapid technological changes and ethical considerations, with ongoing development and partnerships to enhance AI education.

Policy revisions were another key focus of the meeting. Proposed updates to Board Policy 525 on violence prevention included expanding in-service training for staff to cover sexual abuse and domestic violence, aligning with existing programs like Health and PBIS. Similarly, Policy 535 revisions clarified service animal definitions and addressed practical concerns around allergies and fears. The board acknowledged the need for a potential policy on therapy dogs, given their increasing presence in schools.

Finally, the board addressed the process for filling a vacancy left by Bruce Hentges’ resignation. A resolution to appoint Al Dalren, who placed fifth in the previous election, was unanimously approved. The appointment will take effect after a 30-day period, during which community members can voice concerns. A special election in November will determine a permanent replacement, with the board considering financial implications and logistical challenges of potentially holding a primary election.