Meet Roxy, Our Therapy Dog!
Roxy is a six-year-old Golden Retriever certified through Canine Community Heroes. She became a therapy dog in 2023 and is entering her fourth year supporting students in education—and her second school community.
With a natural gift for connecting with children, Roxy brings comfort, joy, and plenty of smiles wherever she goes. Her favorite things include pets, treats, following Mrs. Gray, and walks. Whether she’s helping a student through a tough moment or simply brightening someone’s day, Roxy loves being present and sharing her calm, friendly energy throughout the school.
How Roxy Supports Our Counseling Program
Roxy helps create a safe, welcoming, and emotionally supportive environment so students can grow academically, socially, and emotionally. She may join:
- Individual counseling and small groups
- Social-emotional learning lessons
- Meet-and-greets for anxious students
- Transition support and reading time
- Crisis response and emotional support (when appropriate)
- Positive behavior reinforcement and relationship-building
- Staff wellness moments
Students often experience reduced stress and anxiety, better emotional regulation, stronger connections with the counselor, improved social skills, and a more positive school climate when Roxy is around.
Parent Opt-Out & Communication
An opt-out form will be shared at the beginning of the year. Families can indicate if they prefer their child not interact with Roxy or participate in activities involving her—due to allergies, fears, cultural or religious beliefs, medical concerns, or other reasons.
If you choose to opt out, Mrs. Gray will follow up with a personal phone call to understand your concerns and create an appropriate plan so your child continues to receive full access to counseling and school supports.
Classroom Introductions & Interaction Expectations
Before Roxy’s first day with students, Mrs. Gray will visit every classroom to introduce her, explain her role, teach safe ways to greet and pet a dog, and review expectations (including when Roxy is “working” versus available).
Students are expected to always ask permission before approaching or petting Roxy. All interactions are supervised, and students are expected to use calm voices and bodies while respecting her resting space. These guidelines also align with New Vision’s hallway expectations.
We’re excited to welcome Roxy and look forward to the comfort, connection, and joy she’ll bring to our school community!
