Opal is the newest member of Ms. Everitt’s classroom. After completing 9 out of 10 of her certification tests, she will soon be certified as a therapy dog.
Opal has gone through several training courses that have helped her pass a majority of her tests to certify her as a therapy dog. Ms. Everitt states, “The only test she hasn’t passed is the one where she sees another dog, and she can’t step in front of me. However, we have been going to the farmer’s market to practice being patient when meeting new dogs. Opal is getting better at it every time we go.”
Opal has been in and out of Ms. Everitt’s classroom for several months, but she is officially here to stay. When asked about how the students feel about Opal, Ms. Everitt said, “They love her!” Senior Lauren Gager has shown her appreciation for the pup by saying, “I look forward to going to Ms. Everitt’s class every day because of Opal. She has the best bandanas, and she’s really fun to play with. It’s a nice change because we have never had a dog in the classroom at school before. I’m very happy with the new addition to the school!”
Not only is Opal there for the students, but she is also there for Ms. Everitt. She first wanted a dog in the classroom after she attended the school’s job fair where she met the therapy dog Oliver. She knew right away that this would be a great option for her classroom, so she got Opal.
Just like some teachers, Opal has favorite students. Ms. Everitt noted, “I think she has a few favorite students. She tends to gravitate towards one person from each class.” However, one person who isn’t her favorite is Mr. Oswald. When he tried to take her on a walk, she slipped out of her harness so she wouldn’t have to go with him. There isn’t a specific reason why she doesn’t like him, but it’s safe to say that Opal disapproves of him.
Opal will soon be certified as a therapy dog, where she will help better the lives of teachers and students alike.
