Since March 2023, SMRSS has proudly partnered with Dogs Connect, a program that supports schools in introducing a wellbeing dog to enhance connection, wellbeing, and social-emotional learning.
Through this partnership, we welcomed Bonnie, our beautiful wellbeing dog, who has become an important and much-loved member of our school community.
Bonnie plays a key role in supporting student wellbeing in a variety of ways:
- Helping students with social and emotional regulation
- Supporting smoother transitions at the beginning of the day and between activities
- Visiting classrooms to offer a calm, reassuring presence
- Encouraging empathy, responsibility, and kindness
- Reducing anxiety and helping students feel more comfortable and confident
The Dogs Connect team has worked closely with our staff to implement this program safely and effectively. Their guidance has ensured that Bonnie’s presence is purposeful, well-managed, and inclusive of the whole school community.
Bonnie’s impact has been truly positive. Her calming influence is felt in classrooms, the yard, and at the school gate. Students often describe her as a source of comfort and joy – and many look forward to seeing her each day.
As a school, we are committed to supporting the wellbeing of our students, and our partnership with Dogs Connect is one of the many ways we are working to create a connected, caring learning environment.
We look forward to continuing this journey with Bonnie and are excited about the many benefits she brings to our school community.