by Ashlyn Shafer, AWHS Senior and District Communications Intern
 Astro
Fallen Timbers Middle |  Laney
Monclova Primary |  Luna
Whitehouse Primary |  Lorain
AWJH |  Teila
Waterville Primary |
Over the past 15 years, Anthony Wayne Local Schools has welcomed school facility dogs into its buildings to support the emotional well-being of students across the district. Today, the District is proud to host five highly-trained school facility dogs; Laney, Luna, Teila, Astro and Lorain. These special dogs are more than just pets–they’re valued members of the school community, playing an important role in building a nurturing and supportive environment. As official "employees," they come to work each day and return home with staff members who have undergone specialized training to care for and work with them.
In the district’s three primary schools, Laney (Monclova), Luna (Whitehouse), and Teila (Waterville) roam the halls with school counselors, principals and nurses. Their daily adventures include reading alongside students, visiting classrooms, playing at recess and greeting students as they arrive each morning. Laney especially enjoys hearing stories from her students and playing frisbee with her favorite squeaky toys at home. Luna, a crowd favorite, participated in the school talent show last year, performing a series of commands alongside a student, showcasing not only her skills but also the deep bond she shares with her school community. At Waterville, Teila is known for rewarding hard-working students with fun activities like obstacle courses, walks, and participating in classroom lessons focused on self-control and perseverance.
At Fallen Timbers Middle School, Astro, a four-year-old black Labrador, brightens the halls with his calm and friendly presence. He is cared for by a team of 12 trained staff members, though he primarily lives with Mrs. Minni, one of the school’s counselors. Astro plays a vital role in helping students regulate their emotions and de-escalate moments of distress, often faster than a human counselor can. Despite his fear of elevators, Astro bravely rides them when needed, especially to support injured students who can't take the stairs. His calming influence has even helped students overcome their fear of dogs, and he’s always eager for a quick game of catch out on the playground.
At AW Junior High, Lorain begins each day with building checks alongside Mr. LeFevre, then greets students with her enthusiastic and affectionate personality. Her days are filled with student and parent meetings, classroom visits, lunch naps and waving students off at dismissal. At home, she’s a typical dog, and can be found snoring loudly in a pile of blankets. Lorain plays a vital role in helping new students feel welcome, offering reassurance and companionship during a time when change and uncertainty can feel overwhelming.
The school facility dog program at Anthony Wayne is a meaningful initiative that creates lasting bonds and teaches lifelong social-emotional skills. These dogs foster empathy, responsibility and emotional awareness in a way that only a loyal four-legged friend can. The District is proud to partner with The Ability Center to be able to offer Laney, Luna, Teila, Astro and Lorain as a resource for students.