Evergreen High School crowns therapy dogs homecoming king and queen

Polenta and Norene were crowned Evergreen High School’s first canine homecoming king and queen under the bright Friday night lights of the homecoming football game. The school created a puppy homecoming court specifically to recognize the two facility dogs, who ran uncontested and won their royal titles in a landslide.

Dogs provide daily emotional support

Lead counselor Amy Wells and the principal stand near the school’s entrance each morning to let students pet or talk to the dogs. The dogs greet students every morning and stay throughout the day until the final bell. Students sometimes stop for a quick pat or linger to enjoy a peaceful moment with the dogs before class.

The dogs walk through hallways, relax in the counselor’s office, and provide reassurance during stressful tests. Interacting with the dogs has made it easier for some students to approach school counselors. Wells stated that research shows cortisol levels can calm with a dog present. She explained that the dogs’ duty is to lie there and just be pet and hang out. Students she had never talked to now come up to her all the time because of the dogs.

Students share how the dogs help them heal

Senior Quinn McEvers said seeing the dogs has become one of the happiest parts of the school day and makes them much happier. McEvers added that you do not need to talk about what is going on in your life to get love from the dogs, and it really helps.

Fellow senior Jackson Thomas said he lights up whenever he sees the dogs because they are cute and he loves dogs. He noted that seeing the dogs made people want to pet them and helped release anxiety during a vulnerable period.

A healing presence after tragedy

The dogs’ daily presence follows a school shooting at Evergreen High School one year ago. The school has been navigating the emotional aftermath of that tragedy. Amy Wells reflected that after last year, having the dogs in the school felt good to staff. Now, providing them daily for students is definitely impactful.

Polenta joined the school in August. Norene arrived in January. The dogs continue to greet students each morning and remain at school until after the final bell, providing steady emotional support.