Jingle

BTCS proudly welcomed a new staff member in Fall 2024: Jingle, the district's first therapy dog. Jingle is a goldendoodle, who was born on July 19, 2024.  After completing training to pass the Canine Good Citizen Test, Jingle joined Tennessee High School’s Viking Academy in January 2025. 

Honey

Introducing our district's newest therapy dog! Honey joined BTCS in January 2025. After she completes her official training, she will be assigned to Tennessee Middle School.

Why Therapy Dogs?

Therapy dogs in schools provide emotional support, helping reduce stress and anxiety among students. Their presence can improve focus, foster positive social interactions, and create a calming environment. Additionally, therapy dogs can enhance students' emotional well-being and contribute to a more positive school culture. Jingle not only provides valuable support to our students but is also paving the way for future BTCS therapy dogs.

Inspired by the local community partnership, interest at Tennessee High School, and the successful district-owned therapy dog programs in Franklin Special School District and Coffee County School District, BTCS officials decided to explore a similar initiative. During a visit to middle Tennessee, Franklin Special School District officials shared insights on the benefits of their eight district-owned therapy dogs. Our team returned to Bristol energized and determined to bring the therapy dog dream to reality for our school community. Then, in August 2024, BTCS was one of only five districts to receive a Beyond Ordinary Learning Opportunities (BOLO) grant from the Tennessee Department of Education to establish a therapy dog program.

Jingle and Honey are F1B goldendoodles, which means they are one generation more hypoallergenic than a first generation goldendoodle! However, if your child has allergies or would prefer not to interact with the therapy dogs, you can simply opt them out or choose for them not to engage with her. For any questions or concerns, contact Kristie Coleman at studentservices@btcs.org.

Therapy Dog Handbook for Families and Staff
This handbook provides information about our therapy dog, Jingle, and the benefits she brings to our school community. Learn about the potential physical, social, cognitive, emotional, and environmental benefits of therapy dogs. Discover how our therapy dog interacts with students, from whole-class activities to individual support. Understand the guidelines for therapy dog interactions and how to opt your child out if you prefer.

Opt-Out Form
While therapy dogs can be a great opportunity for students, we understand if you prefer your child not interact with a dog casually or in a one-on-one environment. If for any reason, you would like to opt your child out of interacting with our therapy dogs, please complete this form. If you have questions, you may contact your school principal or Student Services at (423) 652-9451.

"Always a friend: Therapy dog-in-training, Jingle"
by Nancy Smith, Kayden Adams, and Lottie Boyles
Staff Writers, The Maroon & White