For more than 17 years, the New Glarus School District has embraced a special kind of staff member—those with four legs, wagging tails, and a gift for brightening students’ days. The district’s therapy dog program has quietly grown into a cherished part of school life, with three certified therapy dogs now working across all grade levels.

At the elementary school, Bruce, a gentle Bernese Mountain Dog, greets students each morning with his calm and friendly presence. At the middle school, Gus, a Golden Retriever, enjoys long walks with students and never turns down a treat. And at the high school, Moe—a Retriever and Cocker Spaniel mix—has become something of a local celebrity.

“Moe genuinely loves his work and arrives at school each day with a hop in his step,” said Special Education Teacher Stephanie Zweifel, who serves as Moe’s handler. “One of the most heartwarming parts of having him in our district is the recognition he receives in the community. It’s not uncommon to hear children and teens call out, ‘Is that Moe?’ as we walk through town—often followed by them running across the street or park just to say hello and sneak in an ‘off-duty’ pet or puppy kiss.”