News Summary
Providence Day School in Charlotte, N.C. has welcomed a certified therapy dog named Coach to support student well-being. Coach, a golden retriever, helps reduce stress during exams and promotes empathy and social interaction. Students enjoy cuddling with him while studying, and his presence is transforming the school community. The initiative to involve therapy dogs in schools is gaining popularity for its positive impact on mental health. Coach has become an integral part of the faculty, bringing smiles and joy to students and staff alike.
Providence Day School Welcomes Therapy Dog “Coach” to Enhance Student Well-being
Charlotte, N.C. has a delightful new addition to Providence Day School that is bringing smiles and reducing stress among students—meet Coach, a friendly golden retriever and certified therapy dog! This adorable pup is here to lend a paw and provide comfort, especially during those nail-biting exam weeks.
Adventure began for Coach and his handler, math teacher Ashley Liberto, as they made their way into the hearts of students and faculty alike. Coach is not just a furry friend; he’s considered an integral part of the faculty, boasting his very own badge! That’s right, in the hallways of Providence Day, Coach struts his stuff as one of the team, and the kids absolutely adore him.
During those stressful examinations, Coach has become the go-to furry buddy. Students, like first-graders Harper and Luke, are all about giving Coach some well-deserved head scratches and belly rubs. Their enthusiasm is proof that little moments of joy can make a significant difference in a hectic school day. High school junior Hudson shared that having Coach around really helps ease the pressure of a tough academic environment. Who wouldn’t feel a bit more relaxed while snuggling with a dog, after all?
Coach often makes his rounds in the school’s library during exam week, providing a comforting space for students to connect with him while they study. Imagine curling up with a good book and a fluffy golden retriever by your side! That’s a recipe for success for many students who find it hard to concentrate amidst the deadlines and responsibilities.
The heartwarming idea to bring a therapy dog to Providence Day came after a personal journey for Liberto following her first dog, Bentley, being diagnosed with cancer. His difficult battle left a lasting impact on the community, and Liberto realized how much comfort dogs can provide. After Bentley’s passing, she dedicated herself to training Coach, allowing him to step into Bentley’s loving shoes. Now, this sweet pup is spreading joy across the campus.
Coach’s gentle demeanor doesn’t just lift spirits; he teaches valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and social interaction. The benefits go beyond mere cuddles; they help students learn how to connect with others and navigate their feelings in a safe and supportive environment.
The initiative to introduce therapy dogs into schools is gaining traction around the nation, making a profound impact on student emotional well-being and academic success. Providence Day School has embraced this growing trend with open arms, showcasing how a gentle canine companion can transform the atmosphere for all.
Charlotte residents are thrilled to see this thoughtful addition to the school and the amazing changes it brings to students’ lives. In a time when mental health is of utmost importance, having a furry friend like Coach makes all the difference, reminding us all that sometimes a wagging tail is all we need to lighten the load.
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Additional Resources
- WCNC: Providence Day School Therapy Dog
- Wikipedia: General Knowledge
- WSOC-TV: Therapy Dogs in Departments
- Google Search: Therapy Dogs in Schools
- Free Press: Therapy Dog Reunited
- Encyclopedia Britannica: General Knowledge
- WCCB Charlotte: Therapy K9 Award
- Google News: Therapy Dogs
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
