Educators raise concerns about district’s proposed policy on emotional support dogs

The School Committee unanimously approved the first reading of a proposed emotional support dog district policy at its meeting on Dec. 3.

Educators from MacArthur Elementary School, however, expressed concern about the policy’s language. Julia Norman, a digital learning teacher, read a statement issued on behalf of the school’s staff calling for the committee to remove the restriction of teachers from serving as handlers.

For three years the school had a working therapy dog handled by fifth grade teacher Toni Meconiates, according to the statement.

The statement said that while a clear policy regarding emotional support dogs is important for the protection of all parties involved, it is unnecessary to include language clarifying that the dog is not a classroom pet due to the dog’s designation and required training.

Additionally, the statement added that equity and access at the school were never compromised by having a classroom teacher as the dog’s handler, nor did it interfere with Meconiates’ instructional responsibilities or create distractions.

The statement also requested that the committee provide research, data or documented district cases that informed its decision to prohibit teachers from serving as handlers. Additionally, the statement claimed that whether intentional or not, the restriction singles out both the school and Meconiates. 

“At a time when the district has expressed a commitment to supporting the emotional well-being of their students and staff, many of us feel that this situation has had the opposite effect,” Norman read.

Committee member John Frassica expressed his frustration about the accusation that the committee had singled out the school and former handler.

“I can’t speak for my colleagues, but in my head I was looking at it as a chance to make sure we do what’s right for the future,” Frassica said.

The policy was initially discussed at a subcommittee meeting on Nov. 19 and is set for a second reading on Dec. 17.