A new four-legged team member will join Oskaloosa Elementary School this spring. David, a certified campus facility dog trained to provide comfort and support, is set to unleash its debut, bringing excitement to students and staff.
Trained by Wyoming-based K9s 4 Mobility, David is a campus facility dog prepared to enhance student well-being. Oskaloosa Elementary Counselor Sam Doll led the effort to bring David to the school, inspired by the positive impact dogs have in education and healthcare settings.
“I’ve always loved dogs,” Doll said. “When I worked at Blank Children’s Hospital, I saw firsthand how powerful facility dogs could be for kids. Transitioning into school counseling, I met other counselors with facility dogs and started researching animal-assisted therapy. The evidence shows it can be a game changer for students.”
Improving Attendance, Reducing Stress
David’s role goes beyond comfort. Studies show campus facility dogs can improve attendance, reduce stress, and boost student self-esteem. Facility dogs are also trained to provide skill tasks that help kids to feel empowered. These tasks include retrieving items, opening and closing drawers, doors, or cabinets, providing deep pressure, and modeling appropriate behaviors.
“For kids, seeing a dog at school can normalize an otherwise intimidating experience,” Doll said. “David will also help students with behavior challenges and boost morale for staff. Dogs are naturally comforting, and the benefits are widespread.”
David will meet with individual students, join guidance classes and small groups, and participate in after-school programs. Doll envisions initiatives like “Dining with David” and reading programs where students read to David to reduce anxiety.
“Studies show that reading to a dog can take the pressure off students, leading to better outcomes,” Doll said.
Community Support
Community partnerships made David’s arrival possible. Cargill’s Cargill Cares initiative provided half the funding, with the school covering the remainder.
“Cargill was excited to partner with us,” Doll said. “Their support, combined with the school’s commitment, has brought this dream to life.”
K9s 4 Mobility has also been an integral partner, specializing in training dogs for people with disabilities and for professionals in schools, courtrooms, and counseling offices. Oskaloosa Middle School’s campus facility dog, Rusty, also came from the program.
“Even though they’re based in Wyoming, they’ve been wonderful to work with,” Doll said. “They’ll train me on how to be David’s handler and support us throughout his first year.”
February Debut
David visited Oskaloosa Elementary on February 17 and 18 with his handlers from K9s 4 Mobility to familiarize himself with the building and meet staff and students. He will return to Wyoming for additional training before joining the school full-time later in the spring. Doll will complete two weeks of training to ensure a smooth transition.
David will live with Doll and accompany her to school daily, except Wednesdays—his designated day off. To address potential challenges, such as allergies, the school is implementing proactive measures, including air filtration systems.
“We’re being thoughtful to ensure everyone is comfortable and supported,” Doll said. “I think David will amplify the culture of our campus in a really powerful way.”
As the community eagerly awaits David’s arrival, excitement continues to grow.
“The support has been incredible,” Doll said. “I can’t wait to see the difference David will make for our students and staff.”
Oskaloosa Elementary is ready to roll out the maroon carpet for its newest team member, proving schools are more than just places of learning—they’re places where people are loved, empowered, and inspired.