Originally published on 9/25/2020
Nicole Dugas, first grade english-language arts teacher at Bob & Betty Nelson Elementary, designed a unique way to engage her students. Last Friday, she hosted a puppy adoption in her classroom where her students were able to choose a stuffed animal puppy, name their new friend, make a collar, and sign an official adoption certificate. On the certificate the students promised to read to their puppies every night, and teach them how to behave.
“The adoption day allows the kids to get involved in learning to read and view it as something fun to do - not just a chore. In my class we say we read to grow our brains because readers are leaders," Dugas explained.
The students are able to bring the puppies back to school, but they must “shower” in sanitizer upon returning and they are to teach them throughout the day. Many of the students have taken it a step further and taught them how to sit and listen during recess! Classroom parents have expressed their sincere appreciation for the idea, and shared how well their children are doing at home with the puppy.
"When I was a kid, I was told what books I had to read and how it had to be done in silence. It taught me to hate reading,” Dugas shared. “I believe we need to motivate kids to want to read and see how reading can change the world.”