Hancock, NY — September 26, 2024
Hancock Central School District (HCS) is excited to announce the arrival of its newest and furriest staff member—Sander, our therapy dog! Sander, a yellow Labrador Retriever, was introduced during yesterday’s Morning Program to an enthusiastic and warm welcome from both students and staff.
Sander comes to us with an impressive background. After completing two years of specialized training through Guiding Eyes for the Blind and earning certification through Paws for Friendship, Sander is well-prepared to bring comfort, support, and companionship to our school community. His extensive training includes rigorous evaluations to ensure a calm temperament and outstanding obedience, making him the perfect addition to HCS.
At six years old, Sander is in excellent health, fully vaccinated, and ready to start his work at Hancock. Outside of school, he is familiar with children and other pets, living with a toddler and frequently interacting with young ones. Sander’s handler at school is Marjorie Hull, and together, they will engage with students in a variety of ways.
Sander’s Role at HCS: Sander's presence at HCS will offer numerous benefits to students. He will assist in improving areas such as participation, social awareness, confidence, and emotional well-being, contributing to the overall positive school culture. Studies have shown that therapy dogs in educational settings can help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and increase emotional wellness. In fact, therapy dogs are part of research-based interventions aimed at achieving both academic and mental health goals for students.
Through therapy dog programs, Sander will help foster:
A more positive school culture and climate
Improved social-emotional well-being for both students and staff
Enhanced sense of belonging, leading to better attendance
Support for academic achievement
Why Therapy Dogs? Therapy dogs have long been recognized for their therapeutic effects, providing comfort and reducing anxiety in various settings. In schools, therapy dogs like Sander provide a much-needed break from the daily routine, helping to alleviate feelings of loneliness and stress. By incorporating therapy dogs into the school environment, HCS is taking proactive steps to enhance the well-being of students and staff alike.
Questions or Concerns? For students who may have an aversion to dogs, we encourage families to contact Marjorie Hull or Principal Durkot to discuss any concerns. The school follows strict protocols to ensure that all students and staff feel safe and comfortable.
Additionally, therapy dogs can also help students overcome a fear of dogs. If you’d like more information on how therapy dogs like Sander can support your child, or if you're interested in learning more about these programs, please contact Marjorie Hull at (607) 637-1219 or via email at mhull@hancock.stier.org.
We are thrilled to welcome Sander to the HCS family, and we know he will be a source of joy, comfort, and support for everyone in our community.
#WeAreHCS
