Okaloosa educators praise READing Paws for improving students’ reading enjoyment and skills
Okaloosa County, Florida – A wonderful educational project called READing Paws is transforming reading sessions in Okaloosa County schools into enjoyable interactions with furry pals. Students at Wright, Kenwood, Destin, Bluewater, and Lewis schools are discovering the transforming pleasure of reading alongside therapy dogs—a technique that not only improves literacy but also creates strong emotional ties.
Part of the larger Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.®) program, the READing Paws Program uses licensed therapy dogs in the classroom. Like Scout at Wright Elementary, these dogs sit patiently as kids read aloud to them. This approach gives students a laid-back and motivating atmosphere, which helps them to find reading to be a joyful and interesting hobby rather than a demanding task.
Scout and other therapy dogs from throughout the district offer their ears and hearts every week, therefore enhancing children’ confidence and literacy abilities.
“Scout has already made a remarkable impact on our students,” said Suzanne Boyd, Principal of Wright Elementary. “The enthusiasm and progress we’ve seen in our young readers are incredible. Scout is more than just a helper—he’s a motivator and a friend to our students.” Peggy Land, Principal of Kenwood Elementary, shared a similar perspective:
“READing Paws is a wonderful addition to our school. Seeing students grow in confidence and joy as they read to these incredible therapy dogs is inspiring. This program brings literacy to life in a truly unique way.”
The idea behind the project was to improve children’s literacy through therapy animals’ supportive presence. Founder of Dog-Harmony Nancy Bown tests and places therapy dog teams in schools closely with READing Paws and Intermountain Therapy Animals. These groups are not just volunteers; they are devoted members of the community driven to raise standards of education.
“One team recently reconnected with an Okaloosa student who helped overcome reading challenges years ago. Now 17, she credits her academic success to her experience with the READing Paws program,” Bown explained, highlighting the lasting impact of the program.
Superintendent Marcus Chambers expressed his pride in the initiative, emphasizing that READing Paws is more than just a reading program—it is a gateway to personal development and future academic success.
“The READing Paws Program exemplifies how creative and compassionate initiatives can transform learning,” Chambers said.
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For both teachers and students, READing Paws inspires an endless love of reading and a sense of accomplishment in Okaloosa County. Those are interested in more details about the program or volunteer work should contact [email protected] since the program invites additional community participation to increase its impact.
