America Strong. Puppies in the Classroom and the mutual benefit for kids and pets.

They play with us, their family.

The first-graders at Handby Elementary School in Wilmington, Delaware, have a few extra classmates.

Last, he took a nap in the alley.

Foster Puppies, joining the kids for reading time, now fondly known as Puppy Time.

For our reading centers today.

It's all part of a bold idea by teacher, Brook Hughes.

I I started fostering puppies during the pandemic. Everyone was coming back from COVID. Everyone was having a hard time transitioning, and I just kept thinking about all the wonderful benefits that it could bring to a school. Let's go to the library.

Partnering with Rags to Rich's Animal Rescue in Pennsylvania Virginia, Brook's Foster tales program started over a year ago. The puppies spend nights and weekends with students, their families, and other teachers, typically for a couple of weeks until the rescue helps place them in forever homes. So far, 51 foster puppies have been adopted through the program, and it's also making a big difference in the classroom.

I love my place.

The kids who were the most reluctant for reading, they are the first ones that want to volunteer for puppy time. We've noticed a huge increase in their reading scores because of it.

Be a great place.

The puppies and kids are helping each other with joy in their hearts.

If you're having a hard day, the puppies just lift your spirits. We're going to give you a puppy kiss saying good job.

We've fostered many puppies in my house. Great to see the kids jumping in to help out.

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