We were invited to Monroe Elementary School in Santa Rosa last Thursday evening for “Family Literacy Night.”
There were 5 reading dog teams set up and ready to go. There were 2 Golden’s, a yellow Lab, a white Maltese and 2 Chihuahua’s. Dad told the lady with the 2 Chihuahua’s that we had cats bigger than her dogs. Sometimes he embarrasses me. So we had all sizes and types of dogs. At 5:30 the doors opened and a lot of families came in. We had to be on our best behavior because the schools principal and a reading specialist were there and they were really watching us because they had never had reading dogs teams in their school before. Mom warned dad to be on his best behavior or he might end up in the principals office again! I guess when dad was going to school he was in the principals office so much that they were on a first name basis!
Mom was one of the 3 people signing up the kids that wanted to read to us. We had 50 kids sign up to read to the dogs! How cool was that! The reading dog teams were really busy for the 1 hour that we were there. The kids enjoyed it so much that some of them signed up for a second turn to read to us!
The reading specialist sent a note to us saying that our reading dog teams were a huge hit! They commented on how nice we all were and how nobody growled at each other. I think I heard dad growl a couple of time, but that didn’t count. She also said, they now want reading dog teams in their school!
I’m proud of the group of dogs and their handlers that I get to work with. We always have a good time and hopefully we are helping the kids read better. When you can read, you can go anywhere and be anybody you want.
By: Joni Cochran on October 24, 2010 at 2:32 pm
This is awesome! Way to go Shelby and Mom & Dad in your work to make this world a better place. Literacy is near and dear to my heart, and you’ve inspired me.
By: Ginger on October 24, 2010 at 4:27 pm
Wow, Shelby. There is no end to your good works. Helping to teach kids how to read. That is just too cool. You are an inspawration to us all!
By: Jana on October 24, 2010 at 4:55 pm
Shelby…you continue to amaze me. I am so proud to know you and your family. Helping the kids learn to read is so important. Keep up the good work. Also, happy belated birthday sweet girl. I am so happy you got some hamburger and fries. Those are my favorite too!. I also saw you on TV when you were at the State Capitol. You were so pretty. Hugs to you dear Princess. Did I tell you that I see your picture everyday. I have your picture right next to my computer. I love looking at your beautiful face. Big hugs to your Mom and Dad too.
Your friend,
Jana
By: Kasey on October 24, 2010 at 5:53 pm
Hey, Shelby, we rock as reading dogs, don’t we? My dad had a good time, too. So many happy people wanting to read! Can’t wait for our next event.
woof!
By: credocanis on October 24, 2010 at 6:45 pm
Shelby, you are a teacher of so many things, I’m not surprised you would add reading to your list of accomplishments. I sure hope you are proud not only of yourself, but also of your Mom and Dad for taking the time to help those in need. A true partnership, it seems!
You all seem pretty special to me.
You are an honest to goodness princess, aren’t you!
Lincoln’s Mom
By: Husker and Chloe on October 24, 2010 at 7:00 pm
Deer shelbee
u donut no us. are mom iz char.she tolded us abowt u and yer dad two. we think u r reelee kool and wut u dew iz reelee kool two. and sew mebee sum day we kan meet u butt we r jest too farm dawgs butt we r prettee smart cuz we rite. sew u didded gud and sew keep on dewing gud thingz. yer frendz frum the farm, husker and chloe and husker thinks u r prittee two
By: etgayle on October 25, 2010 at 7:48 am
shelby, you are amazing!!! what a wonderful way to help kids…i’m sure this meant special treats for you on the way home??? you are a princess of highest regard!
gayle & charon
By: jerry on October 27, 2010 at 11:50 am
Shelby, you are making such a huge impression on everyone and everywhere you go. It’s beautiful to know that so many kids will be forever touched by your talents, your kindness and your courage.
You are changing the world, sweet girl!