Russellville, TN: Elem school adds therapy dog; provides a 'calming effect'

Oct 6, 2018, Morristown (TN) Citizen Tribune: Russellville Elementary starts reading program https://www.citizentribune.com/education/russellville-elementary-starts-reading-program/article_e5628ea6-c9ab-11e8-b62f-cf64469256dc.html First grade students at Russellville Elementary are piloting the Ruff Reading program in Hamblen County Schools. A school program is most successful when there is a partnership between the teacher and the H.A.B.I.T. (Human-Animal Bond in Tennessee) Ruff Reading volunteer. H.A.B.I.T.’s half of the equation is to bring a nonjudgmental and unconditionally loving animal that will create a supportive environment for students. On the school side, the teacher will have the opportunity to direct the use of this tool to create the best outcome for her/his students’ academic, social, or emotional development…. "The presence of dogs has a calming effect on many people. Many primary schools are becoming increasingly pressurized environments and children generally do not respond well to such pressure," Winstead said….