Therapy dog puts smiles on students faces at Frontier Central High School

Summary

Cooper, a certified therapy dog at Frontier Central High School in Hamburg, plays a vital role in enhancing the school environment. His presence helps reduce stress and brings joy to students and staff alike. Patrolling the hallways at least twice a week, Cooper greets students and provides comfort, particularly to those in distress or special needs. His owner, Assistant Principal David Smaczniak, notes how exhausted Cooper is after a day of interacting with students. Beyond the school, Cooper participates in events like football games and plays, making a significant difference in the community.

Takeaways

• 😀 Cooper is a certified therapy dog at Frontier Central High School in Hamburg, helping improve student well-being.
• 🐾 The 6-year-old Golden Retriever is known for his friendly and calming presence in the school environment.
• 💼 Cooper visits the school at least twice a week, patrolling hallways and stopping by classrooms to interact with students.
• 🌟 Studies show that pets, like Cooper, can significantly reduce stress and increase happiness among students.
• 🧑‍🏫 Assistant Principal David Smaczniak is Cooper's owner and highlights the dog's positive impact on students.
• 💤 After a day of greeting students, Cooper often returns home exhausted from his activities.
• 📚 Cooper supports special needs students and those in distress, providing comfort and companionship.
• 😌 Simply petting or hugging Cooper helps students manage anxiety and feel more relaxed.
• 🏈 Cooper participates in various school events, including football games and high school plays, extending his role beyond the classroom.
• ✨ The presence of therapy dogs like Cooper showcases the importance of mental health support in educational settings.

Q & A

What is Cooper's primary role at Frontier Central High School?

Cooper's primary role is to provide emotional support and comfort to students and staff as a certified therapy dog.

How often does Cooper visit the school?

Cooper visits Frontier Central High School at least twice a week, and sometimes more frequently.

What certifications does Cooper hold?

Cooper has several certifications, including Canine Good Citizenship, Erie County SPCA Paws for Love, and Therapy Dog International.

What effect has Cooper had on the school environment?

Cooper has positively changed the school environment, making it calmer and more joyful for students, who express excitement upon seeing him.

Who is Cooper's owner, and what is his position at the school?

Cooper's owner is Assistant Principal David Smaczniak.

How do students respond to Cooper when they are feeling stressed?

Students often pet or hug Cooper when they are having a bad day, which helps alleviate their anxieties.

Can you give an example of a situation where Cooper has helped students?

Cooper has visited an AP Calculus class, providing comfort and helping to reduce stress during a challenging subject.

In addition to the high school, where else does Cooper provide support?

Cooper also works with support groups at Big Tree Elementary School.

What other activities does Cooper participate in outside of regular school hours?

Cooper participates in various activities, including attending football games and high school plays.

What does Assistant Principal Smaczniak say about Cooper's demeanor after school?

Smaczniak notes that Cooper is often exhausted after school because he has interacted with so many students and walked around the large building.