Preston Smoak, Ripley, and Samuel New take a break from their studies at The Sandhills School

As school starts and fifth grade students find their seats, Ripley the canine classmate follows suit by settling down in his corner. The yellow lab feels like one of the gang when he’s with his friends at The Sandhills School in Columbia.

Fifth grade teacher Suzanne Gwinner does show a little favoritism to the furry student. After all, Ripley is the teacher’s pet!

Ripley goes to and from school each day with Gwinner. This unique dog plays an important role at The Sandhills School.

Ripley poses with his fifth grade class. Back row: Marshall Drake, Ms. Suzanne Gwinner, Draytie Hastie, and Kennedy Bynum. Front row: Madeleine Muni, Preston Smoak, and Samuel New “Ripley helps children who are sick, hurt or just having a rough day,” Gwinner said.

Gwinner trains pets for animal therapy programs. Ripley offers therapy to youth and is also being trained to work in hospitals and nursing homes.

The Sandhills School, near Garners Ferry Road, is for first through eighth grade students diagnosed with dyslexia or ADHD (attention deficit disorder). Faced with overcoming these difficulties, the children are often comforted by Ripley’s fun-loving and caring nature.

Every morning before school starts, Ripley visits the head of The Sandhills School Anne Vickers, who is waiting with a warm smile and a doggie treat. Then, he’s off to the fifth grade homeroom where he settles in with fellow classmates.

“Ripley follows the fifth grade schedule,” Vickers said. “But his favorite part of the day is when he goes to recess with all the kids. He loves to run and play with the kids. And when he’s tired, he goes to his crate to rest.”

Because Ripley has been tested extensively in animal therapy, he inspires the students during their quizzes. “The kids love that Ripley takes tests, too!” Vickers said.

The Sandhills School is shaping confident and resourceful children who are equipped to tackle areas where they may have once struggled. The school uses the “Orton-Gillingham” approach, development coordinator Susan Hodges explained.

“Classes are divided into small groups for instruction in language and math,” she said. “Many children who have dyslexia or ADHD are creative thinkers. They can take an object in their mind and turn it around three-dimensionally. The way we teach is brilliant for any child, but it is essential for these kids.”

Because The Sandhills School uses a specialized approach to teach students, the use of animal therapy fits in perfectly.

Ripley is a valued member of The Sandhills School and has added a whole new dimension to the program. Smiling students and Ripley’s wagging tail say it all.