Students at Capital City Schools' summer school program had an exciting morning!
Jackie Hurst, from the Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library stopped by to show the students a turtle. They learned all about these reptiles and child each had the opportunity to pet the little guy.
A turtle wasn't the only four-legged animal wandering the halls, however. School psychologist Stephanie Avila brought the school's two therapy dogs out to interact with students.
The dogs, Gracie and Broghan, are both professional therapy dogs who are at-the-ready whenever a student might need a furry friend. The dogs are trained to perform a variety of tasks, such as helping kids balance, calming students who are experiencing panic attacks, or just being available as an emotional support for kids who are sad. Ms. Avila's dogs are trained and certified, and her work with them resulted in her being awarded the Hometown Hero Award by the Red Cross. The school is so fortunate to have Ms. Avila, Gracie and Broghan!
Another visitor to the school was music therapist Sarah Niileksela.
She sang with the students and played her guitar. Each student also got to make a little music of their own with fish-shaped shakers!
It was another fun day of learning at Topeka Public Schools, where great things happen every day!