Students Build Reading Confidence with Therapy Dog

The Beaches Campus welcomed Laurie Wilbur of Pet Partners and her therapy dog, Rosie, during a special school assembly last Friday. Students in Pre-K - Grade 5 will take turns practicing their reading skills by reading to Rosie every Friday for the remainder of the school year. 

“Reading to pets is a great way for students to build confidence in reading aloud.  Rosie, a Chocolate Lab, is a trained therapy dog. Her calm and gentle presence soothes any anxiety students may feel when reading aloud, and at the same time, allows the students to make a special connection with a lovable friend,” said Jennifer Ketchum, Head of Lower School, Beaches Campus.

Laurie’s two son's, John '12 and Cole '14, are Episcopal alumni.