Classroom learning has gone to the dogs! Specifically, Murphy, CVPS’s new Therapy dog. You may have seen her on campus or seen photos of her interacting with your children on Seesaw. 

Murphy has joined the staff at CVPS, and her role is to help support the children in class with their emotional, social, and literacy skills. This seems like a tall order for a short black Labrador, but Murphy is up to the task. Multiple studies have shown that Therapy Dogs in schools assist children socially and emotionally and these studies are available online, or you can request copies from the Governing council direct. They have been listed below if you’d like to vortex into the reading. 

We expect Murphy to help children by providing stability and comfort in the classroom. She can help them regulate and control their emotional response and de-escalate when in crisis. Having Murphy in the classroom also teaches responsibility, builds confidence, and fosters empathy, caretaking and respect for living things, which is a core part of the IB program. 

But how does a dog help with literacy? She can’t read or write? But she can listen, giving children an opportunity for playful communication, relief from perfectionism and a chance to build confidence in their skills. 

Murphy has been specially trained to interact with children and will steer clear of children who are uncomfortable around dogs; her continued presence may help desensitise children who have had negative dog interactions in the past. To ensure this good work continues, we ask that you don’t bring your own dogs onto campus during school pick up and drop off. Assistance and Guide Dogs continue to be welcome as they are Murphy’s work colleagues. 

Welcome aboard Murphy and we look forward to having you on the team!

-Sam Neville, Governing Council Chairperson.