Before the 2026 school year came to a close, Bryan ISD celebrated additional comfort dogs for Branch Elementary, Bryan High School and Johnson Elementary.
They were made possible by fundraising efforts by the Bryan ISD Education Foundation.
On April 29, Pearl was welcomed with a special assembly at Branch Elementary.
"Pearl brings a positive energy to school each day. The students get so excited to see her in the hallway and have her come to their classrooms. She has already been able to help students overcome overwhelming moments and celebrate their successes," said Allison Herring, a Special Education Math Resource Teacher at Branch and Pearl's new handler.
"I was so excited when I found out Branch was going to receive a comfort dog. I had heard stories about the amazing things that the other comfort dogs in the district were doing and could not wait to see Pearl make that same impact on our campus. I am thankful that the Bryan ISD Foundation has put in the hard work to make this possible for our community," added Herring.
"Pearl has already made such an impression on our students and staff in the short amount of time she has been on campus with us here at Branch," said Ashley Lopez, Principal at Branch Elementary.
"Her presence brings about a calming sense to those around her. I've witnessed her help a student who was suffering with some physical symptoms of anxiety, be able to calm them and help them regain composure around her. It has been the biggest blessing," Lopez added.
On May 8, Thor was dedicated at Bryan High School during a special Pep Rally in Viking Gym. The Bryan High School Shy-Annes and the cheerleaders were part of the celebration.
"I was super excited. I love dogs and would love to be a part of this," said Michelle Rios, a Special Education Teacher and Coach at Bryan High School. Rios is Thor's new handler on campus during the school day, while Trent Cox, Head Athletic Trainer, takes care of him overnight.
"I hope that it will improve our school culture, make them excited about coming to school. That emotional support that our high school students really need," said Rios.
Students and staff at Johnson Elementary celebrated the arrival of Georgia on May 8. It included a performance by Bryan High School's Los Vikingos Mariachi.
"We're very excited to welcome her to our campus. She'll be in my art classes. I have all the students throughout the week. We're just really excited. We love her already," said Crystal Beato, Johnson Elementary School's Art Teacher.
"I'm excited to see the impact she's already making at our campus. We hope to have lots and lots of great memories made with Georgia," said Beato.
We appreciate the Bryan ISD Education Foundation and their ongoing P.A.W.S. (Pups Assisting Wellness and Support) Program for helping place these comfort dogs on our campuses.
During this past school year, the other comfort dog placements included June at Kemp - Carver Elementary School, Mochi at Neal Elementary School, and Rhys at Ross Elementary School.