Minnie and Me Tail Waggin' Tutors
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Minnie’s job as a Reading Therapy dog to the children at Valley Prep Academy Charter School is very important. Before we discovered Minnie’s talents, we were looking at alternative ways to reach our students with immense challenges in reading fluency. With some of our elementary students reading below grade level due to various circumstances, our teachers realized it would take more than just intensive reading instruction. Our students needed to build their confidence in reading. When we began incorporating Minnie as a Reading Therapy dog into our program, we were excited about the prospect of children reading aloud without fear of “judgment” or correction. Minnie’s calm spirit and inquisitive gaze excited the students to read their very best. For example, one student who was afraid to read aloud in front of others seemed very comfortable reading to Minnie. After several sessions with Minnie, she began to look forward to her quiet time reading aloud. Slowly, her confidence rose and her teacher noticed a huge difference in her self-esteem. Sometimes animals can do what people cannot! Minnie’s contribution to our school has been wonderful. Since charter schools strive to teach in non-traditional, progressive settings, we feel that Minnie is a perfect fit during our instructional time. She is now participating in one-on-one reading buddy sessions twice a week, and the children and teachers look forward to her presence. She has become a valuable part of our learning team. Shelly Melton Director |
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