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READing Paws program expands to five Okaloosa County schools

The READing Paws Program, part of the Reading Education Assistance Dogs initiative, partners certified therapy dogs with schools to boost literacy and confidence among young readers in Okaloosa County.
Bonnie London and Scout, a therapy dog who helps young readers build confidence at Wright Elementary School. (Okaloosa County School District)

Five Okaloosa County schools are seeing positive results from an innovative reading program that pairs students with therapy dogs to improve literacy skills.

  • The READing Paws Program, operating at Wright Elementary, Kenwood Elementary, Destin Elementary, Bluewater Elementary, and Lewis School, creates a supportive environment where students read aloud to certified therapy dogs.

At Wright Elementary, Scout, a nationally certified R.E.A.D.® dog, meets with students weekly. “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.”

Kenwood Elementary Principal Peggy Land has observed similar benefits: “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, explained that the program operates through partnerships with READing Paws and Intermountain Therapy Animals.

  • Dog-Harmony serves as an affiliate therapy organization that tests and places therapy dog teams. Bown shared a success story of a former participant, now 17, who attributes her academic achievements to her early experience with the program.

Superintendent Marcus Chambers praised the program’s impact on student learning: “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.”

Those interested in volunteering or learning more about the program can contact hello@dog-harmony.org.

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