Port Huron, MI: Therapy dog to help students with 'coping strategies, emotional regulation'

May 13, 2025, Times Herald, Port Huron MI: Meet Frannie, St. Clair County RESA's newest four-legged employee

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St. Clair County Regional Educational Service Agency has hired its newest employee.

Frannie, a 2-month-old Australian labradoodle, is undergoing training to become a certified therapy dog for the agency. Once she completes her training, she will begin working at the Creekside Learning Center and Woodland Development Center, both of which provide education to special need students in St. Clair County.

Frannie is being trained through Mindfulness Therapy Dogs based in Gregory, with her training focusing on staying calm in school settings and helping students with special needs.

"Her training is grounded in evidence-based approaches and includes specific techniques to support students in special education programs, helping them build coping strategies, emotional regulation, and self-confidence," a news release announcing Frannie's hiring stated.

The Community Foundation of St. Clair County provided funding for RESA to purchase Frannie and pay for her training. The foundation's Youth Advisory Co

uncil and the Mino Kramer Donor Advised Fund provided a combined $12,000.

Frannie will also undergo biweekly training visits to Creekside Learning Center and Woodland Development Center with her handler, Dean of Students Chelsey Hull.

The news release states Hull will be trained on how to handle Frannie. Hull, who is also a trained social worker and therapy specialist, was inspired by her own experience with therapy animals to hire Frannie to work with students at both schools.

“I’ve seen firsthand how impactful the presence of a therapy dog can be,” Hull said. “It’s been a dream of mine to bring this kind of support to our students and staff. Research shows that a therapy animal can make a big difference, improving attendance, reducing stress and anxiety, and helping students build confidence and social skills.”

Frannie will begin working full time for St. Clair County RESA in November.