Number Three School Annex became part of  Fairview’s District in the 2006-2007 academic year .  It is strictly a Grade One  temporary classroom  facility which we are leasing from the Newark Archdiocese.   This facility has allowed the district to add sections to other grade levels in an effort to reduce class sizes and provide students with the best possible education.            

The Number Three School Annex has a special tutor attend their extended day program: Joy, an adorable little Shih Tzu!  Ms. Apone and her Therapy Dog, Joy, make visits to the after school first grade reading classes.  Ms. Apone and Joy are certified by Therapy Dogs International, a volunteer group organized to provide qualified handlers and their Therapy Dogs for visitations to facilities of all kinds.  Specifically, Therapy Dog research has shown children who might be hesitant, embarrassed or shy about their reading abilities feel at ease around a dog that is just there to listen to the story and not judge how well a child reads.  Confidence in  reading could lead to improved grades and improved grades mean happy children and parents.

Joy’s visits certainly seem to have an impact on the first graders who read to her.  Struggling readers progress to higher reading levels and look at reading as a positive activity that is both educational and enjoyable.  Additionally, children learn to interact with and appreciate dogs in a supportive situation.

For more information on Therapy Dogs International and its programs, please click the puppy below.