The Okaloosa County School District is proud to highlight the remarkable success of the READing Paws Program. This initiative nurtures young readers by pairing them with therapy dogs in a unique and engaging setting. Through this program, students at Wright Elementary, Kenwood Elementary, Destin Elementary, Bluewater Elementary, and Lewis School are discovering the joy of reading in a supportive and comforting environment.
The READing Paws Program is part of the Reading Education Assistance Dogs (R.E.A.D.®) initiative, which partners certified therapy dog teams with schools to boost literacy and confidence among young readers. Scout, a nationally certified R.E.A.D.® dog, visits Wright Elementary weekly to listen to students as they read aloud, offering a fun and stress-free way to improve their reading skills. Similarly, Destin, Bluewater, Kenwood, and Lewis Schools host therapy teams that support their students' literacy journeys.
"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."
Nancy Bown, founder of Dog-Harmony, emphasized the program's broader mission: "The goal of READing Paws is to improve literacy skills in children through the assistance of nationally registered and qualified therapy animal-owner teams. Dog-Harmony has partnered with READing Paws and Intermountain Therapy Animals as an affiliate therapy organization that tests and places therapy dog teams. These teams demonstrate unwavering dedication and have profoundly impacted our community. 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."
Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the program's contributions to student success: "The READing Paws Program exemplifies how creative and compassionate initiatives can transform learning. By fostering a love for reading and building confidence, this program opens doors for our students and shapes their futures. We are incredibly grateful to the therapy teams, volunteers, and community partners who make this possible."
The READing Paws Program continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students across all participating schools, fostering a lifelong love for reading and empowering them to succeed. For more information about the program or to volunteer, please get in touch with hello@dog-harmony.org.
Photo Caption: Bonnie London with Scout
