Sun, the Golden Retriever, has been present at Françoise Dolto college (Sierentz, Alsace) for 2 years and her presence has become essential for students and teachers. Recently, this animal mediation project, supported by the teaching team, was able to benefit from a financial boost of 2000 euros. The college, which has no shortage of compliments for Sun, has many plans for its mascot.
The students are unanimous and recognize everything that the dog has brought them since her arrival at the college in 2024 with her mistress, Laurence Erhartalso AESH (accompanying students with disabilities) within the establishment. Present in classes, Sun is the ray of sunshine that allows students to follow their learning in good conditions, reassuring them in their work, but also allowing them to have fun.
DNA
“I want to go there because there’s Sun”
4 students were interviewed by Latest News from Alsace about the benefits of having a service dog at their college. Their testimonies are very touching, particularly that of Éloïse who explains: “On Tuesday, when there is math class with Mrs. Dangel, I want to go because there is Sun”. Nadiaanother student, testifies: “When a kit falls on the ground, she will pick it up. If you tell her to put her paw on your lap, she does it.”.
The students also maintain a real bond with the Golden Retriever to whom they do “jokes” to which she knows how to react perfectly. This was the case recently when the students hid in the classroom and Sun found everyone.
An educational initiative
Estelle Dangela mathematics teacher, is at the origin of the project. After knowing the association's missions Handi'chiensshe got in touch with Laurence Erhart, AESH who is the owner of Sun. The latter also works with students with disabilities in a class Ulis (Localized unit for educational inclusion).
Hearing the students declare “She makes me want to work”it is obvious that the objective has been achieved.
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Thanks to a recent donation from the foundation Pierre-and-Adrienne-Sommerthe establishment will be able to extend its project, including: “the installation of a cocooning room, in order to further promote the links between the Golden Retriever and the students »And “an agility course for Sun”.