More furry friends could help Oceanside students

Oceanside’s reading to dogs program could potentially make its way to other elementary schools in the district some day.

The school district is now looking into expanding the reading program, which began in spring 2009 and is only active at School 4. Students involved in the program participate during school hours in an effort to improve their skills and comfort level when reading in front of an audience. It is offered for various grade levels.

“The program helps the confidence of kids by allowing them to read to animals,” said Superintendent Dr. Herb Brown, who mentioned that the program is fit for young students who are shy or less willing to read when they have to do it in a classroom setting. “But the jury is still out as to whether or not it generates a greater interest in reading among students,” Brown added.

The dogs in the program come from the Bideawee Foundation, one of the nation’s leading welfare animal organizations. Professionals train the animals and provide them to School 4, where they play the role of listening to children as stories are read aloud.

“Our program builds up a child’s comfort level by having them read in front of a non judgmental crowd. The dogs are perfect roles for that,” School 4 Principal Joanna Kletter said.

Kletter mentioned that small groups of students work best for the program. Over the years, third and fourth graders have participated in it. This year, sixth graders will be reading to canines as well.

When asked if she would like to see reading to dogs expand, Kletter was honest. “If we can get enough people together along with the right group of people, then sure,” she said. “Right now, we have no hard data of the program’s effect on students.”

Comments about this story? TSteinert@liherald.com or (516) 569-4000 ext. 282.