I’m always delighted to have Coco’s report in my inbox on Monday mornings. I love reading about all the good things she has done for the students and staff at Melican Middle School in Northborough, Massachusetts. And, now for you to enjoy, as well….
Here’s Coco…
This week I went to school with Mom on Tuesday and Friday, and Molly went on Tuesday and Thursday.
Tuesday, Molly and I spent some time together in the behavior specialist’s room working with students with anxiety, depression, and others who just sometimes need a break from the typical school schedule. Students took us for walks, sat with us as they completed work, and let us rest our heads on them as they talked with counselors and teachers. We also met with students one-on-one and in groups, and we spent some time in counseling groups. I enjoy working as the only dog, but Molly and I also work very well together and I was happy to see her. Students loved having both of us there on the same day. After school, I helped Mom with late buses and then I waited patiently in the car as she and Tibby Chase, our new Bright Spot trainer, worked together to plan for an upcoming class.
On Friday, I started my day helping Mom organize and oversee MCAS testing accommodation materials. As teachers came into the office to sign out their testing materials, many of them petted me and talked with Mom. I loved the attention and Mom says I helped teachers stay calm, despite the pressures they feel because of the MCAS. I also worked with many students on Friday and went for several walks.
My favorite part of Friday was when Mom and I went to the gym with the guidance counselor and one of the students with whom I have a very special bond. As he and Mom played basketball, the guidance counselor and I watched from the side, and I occasionally inserted myself into the game. Mom says I set some pretty good picks. I was thinking about this student…what a very difficult life he has, and all the struggles he has faced as such a young man. I have mentioned him before in posts, but his parents split up a couple of years ago, and he was forced to surrender his dog and cats. He often talks to Mom and me about how much he misses his dog. When he came to our school at the end of last year, he and I instantly bonded. Mom says I have made a huge difference in his life. He spends at least ninety minutes with me every day that I am at school.
I love my job at Mom’s school. On days I go with her, I get so excited to see my blue Bright Spot vest. Sometimes I jump around uncontrollably (even though I am not typically a jumper) and I bark incessantly because I am so excited. Being with students all day, knowing that I am making a difference, and knowing that Mom is someplace close by are some of the reasons I enjoy working so much. ~Coco