🐾 Meet Jazzy! PCSD's Therapy Dog! 🐾

"We are pleased to share that students will have the opportunity to interact with Putnam County School District’s certified therapy dog team throughout the school year. My therapy dog, Jazzy, and I have completed extensive training and certification to ensure a beneficial experience for our students. Jazzy has earned the “Star Puppy” and “K-9 Good Citizen” certificates through the American Kennel Club, and together we hold a “Pet Therapy Team” certification from the national organization, The Alliance of Therapy Dogs."

Diana Drew, Director of Student Services

The Benefits of Therapy Dogs Research highlights that therapy dogs can support both psychological and academic growth, enhancing social skills and self-esteem in children and adolescents. These specially trained dogs provide emotional support that positively influences reading skills, emotional well-being, and communication abilities. Additionally, interactions with therapy dogs can help reduce anxiety, build self-confidence, and foster a positive learning environment. Therapy sessions may take place in small groups, within classrooms, or individually with the certified therapy dog team.

About Jazzy Jazzy is a highly trained and certified therapy dog who brings warmth and comfort to every interaction. Her certifications from the American Kennel Club and The Alliance of Therapy Dogs attest to her ability to engage with students in a supportive and safe manner. With her friendly and calm demeanor, Jazzy is ready to help create a positive and nurturing space for students to thrive.

Opt-Out Information

We understand that not all parents and guardians may wish for their child to participate in these interactions.

If you prefer that your child not engage with the therapy dog team, please complete the opt-out form.

If you have any questions please reach out to Diana Drew at d2drew@my.putnamschools.org.

If we do not receive an opt-out form, we will assume you are comfortable with your child participating in this program during the school year.

🐾 Jazzy in the News! 🐾

🐾 Jazzy's First Visit to Crescent City Jr. Sr. High School! 🐾

This morning, Jazzy, our certified therapy dog, made her first visit to Crescent City Jr. Sr. High School and spent time with a small group of students in Mrs. Carter's class. The students were excited to meet Jazzy, asked thoughtful questions, and enjoyed interacting with her. Jazzy’s presence brought smiles all around, and the students are already looking forward to her next visit!

Diana Drew, Director of Student Services and Jazzy’s handler was delighted with how well the visit went and how perfectly Jazzy performed her role. Jazzy is truly an asset to PCSD, and we’re proud to have her as part of our team! 🐾✨

🐾 Jazzy joined Superintendent Rick Surrency on an episode of The Pulse! 🐾

WATCH EPISODE HERE!

During the podcast, Superintendent Surrency speaks with Kim Simmons, a licensed mental health therapist; Diana Drew, Director of Student Services and dog handler; and Jazzy, the therapy dog. They discuss how therapy dogs like Jazzy create an emotional bridge that encourages students to open up about their thoughts and feelings, including their mood, academic performance, and behavior. Diana also shares the extensive training she and Jazzy completed to prepare for this role, ensuring students can fully benefit from their interactions with Jazzy. Tune into the episode to learn more about Jazzy and the positive impact therapy dogs have on students' well-being.