There is a problem in the attitude of high school students. Many students are often stressed, sad or upset when they come to school. This problem, of negative feelings, has negatively impacted grades and how students interact with each other. A study which investigates the impact of dogs on attitudes and the high school atmosphere through a case study could remedy this situation.

High school is an extremely stressful time for all students. Everyone goes through the stress of tests, day to day worries, drama and keeping up with grades. If dogs were utilized in high school settings more often, the whole high school population would benefit from less stress. 

Elena Breiner 

breinele000@stu.sumnersd.org

I predict that the presence of dogs will have a positive impact on students and the atmosphere, and will make teachers report their classes being happier, this is because dogs build connections and produce calming reactants in the human mind. 

Opinion: Someone's thoughts or feelings on a matter, not necessarily based off data.

Perception: Someone’s view or opinion relating to a specific topic or thing. 

Service Dog: A dog trained to perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability.

Atmosphere: The tone or mood of a place or situation.

Case Study & Survey

 I am using a case study and survey to measure the perceptions and opinions of teachers who have dogs in their classrooms. The survey will ask teachers to rank their feelings of how the dogs have impacted their classes and students.