Lincoln to bring on new therapy dog

WASHINGTON — Washington school district officials say they’re working on a getting a new therapy dog for Lincoln Elementary as the four-legged staff member, a dog named Coral, “plans to retire.”

“They’re excited about having them, and it’s important to our students,” Superintendent Willie Stone said. “It’s amazing how much a dog can calm someone down who’s in a traumatic situation … it really is truly amazing, so I would recommend that the board approve the Lincoln therapy dog.”

The school board’s vote of approval Tuesday night was unanimous, in line with several votes for dogs at other buildings earlier this year. The district plans to keep one therapy dog at each school.

The new dog is expected to start later this school year. Stone said Coral continued to help out at Lincoln occasionally in the interim.

“Every once in a while, Teresa will take her to the high school,” Stone said. “She’s retired, but she subs every once in a while.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com