JERSEY SHORE, Pa. — Students aren't the only ones walking the halls of Jersey Shore Area Senior High School in Porter Township. So does 2-year-old golden retriever Kempton, the school's new facility dog.
Kempton was funded through the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency's Emotional Wellness Safety Grant.
While he wasn't specifically trained as a therapy dog, health and physical education teacher Patty Hess says he provides support for students.
"That is one of the points of research is getting kids to come to school, just because you know they get to see Kempton and we've heard that, 'I came to see him today.' We've had special occasions where the kids get to come in and get their pictures done with him," Hess said.
Teachers can request a visit from Kempton when students are taking a test or giving a presentation to help calm them down. He also makes an appearance at the school's Dawg Pound Coffee Shop every Wednesday.
"Students come in, get their coffee, have a little Kempton time, visit with him, and then they go onto class, so it's been a nice addition, too. It's a place where they know they can count on seeing him," said Stephanie Machmer, Kempton's handler.
Kempton's home base is Machmer's life skills classroom. When the school day is over, he goes home with Machmer.
"He's been a great addition to our room as well because the students are learning about the responsibility of having a pet."
Kempton can also provide some support for students visiting the guidance office.
"They can focus more on the dog, and then they're able to talk about what's going on, and it just seems to ease their worries and helps them with their anxiety, talking about what's going on in their lives, and it's really great," said Guidance Counselor Holly Walker.
Teachers at Jersey Shore Senior High School say they consider Kempton another staff member.