Nov 27, 2017, Aurora, NY, SRY—TV: Aurora principal's therapy dog helping reduce student's stress and behavior problems http://www.localsyr.com/news/local-news/aurora-principals-therapy-dog-helping-reduce-students-stress-and-behavior-problems/865928945 Principal Chris Clapper has been bringing his dog Archer to work for the past three years. Over that time, the school has seen a reduction in student behavior referrals, which Clapper believes is due, in part, to Archer's presence. "He's especially good when a child needs that emotional connection," Clapper said. "He's there for them. He's there for them every single day. And they know that." Archer is usually a constant presence in the hallways before classes start, but he's also used for one-on-one time if a student is on good behavior. Southern Cayuga School District also a therapy dog in the adjoining high school for students. "It could be the one connection that gets [students] through the day or it helps them look forward to coming to school," Clapper said. "So if we can help provide that emotional connection: why wouldn't we?"
Childhood Lost
Children today are noticeably different from previous generations, and the proof is in the news coverage we see every day. This site shows you what’s happening in schools around the world. Children are increasingly disabled and chronically ill, and the education system has to accommodate them. Things we've long associated with autism, like sensory issues, repetitive behaviors, anxiety and lack of social skills, are now problems affecting mainstream students. Blame is predictably placed on bad parenting (otherwise known as trauma from home).
Addressing mental health needs is as important as academics for modern educators. This is an unrecognized disaster. The stories here are about children who can’t learn or behave like children have always been expected to. What childhood has become is a chilling portent for the future of mankind.