A new grant helps Talawanda sustain its therapy dog program by covering required background checks for handlers, ensuring student support continues safely and without interruption.
Talawanda School District recently received a grant to fund background checks for therapy dog handlers, allowing the district to maintain and expand a program that supports student wellness and complies with state safety requirements.
The funding will help cover the cost of annual background checks required for individuals who regularly enter school buildings, a legal requirement tied to school safety policies. District officials say the expense had become a barrier to sustaining the therapy dog program at its current level of service.
“This is both a legal compliance issue and a reflection of the district’s commitment to safety and security,” said Holli Hansel, director of communications for Talawanda School District.
The grant will primarily support services at Talawanda Middle School and the district’s elementary schools, where therapy dogs are not consistently on-site. While some schools have therapy dogs handled by staff members, others rely on visits through a local program led by retired teacher Cindy Kettlewell, who is involved in regional animal support initiatives.
Hansel said therapy dogs play an important role in student wellness efforts, which remain a priority for the district. The animals are typically present on a daily or weekly basis and are well-known among students and staff.
Students and staff “love and value the therapy dogs,” Hansel said, noting that their presence often boosts morale and provides emotional support.
The program has been especially impactful during times of crisis, such as the loss or serious illness of a student. In those situations, therapy dogs have been brought into schools to provide comfort and help students cope.
“Our Student Services team greatly values this program,” Hansel said. “The therapy dogs are a great support measure during difficult times.”
The grant will be used immediately to ensure handlers meet district and legal requirements, allowing the therapy dog program to continue serving students without interruption.
