Hoboken Public School District Welcomes New Therapy Dog, Georgie
Providing Comfort, Connection, and Emotional Support Across the District
Hoboken, NJ, — (May 27, 2025) — The Hoboken Public School District is delighted to introduce the newest member of its educational team: Georgie, a certified therapy dog whose presence is set to enhance the emotional well-being and mental health of students and staff district-wide. More than just a friendly face, Georgie represents an innovative and compassionate approach to fostering social-emotional development and creating a climate of care across all school communities.
With his gentle demeanor, intuitive nature, and a tail that never stops wagging, Georgie brings a unique kind of support to the halls and classrooms of Hoboken’s schools. He is a Cavapoo—a cross between a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and a Poodle—known for his affectionate personality, intelligence, and ability to bond easily with children and adults alike. These traits make Georgie an ideal candidate for therapeutic work in educational settings where emotional regulation, connection, and comfort are essential.
Georgie has completed specialized training to become a certified school-based therapy dog. She and her handler, Kristin E. Carr, Ed.D., Director of School-Based Youth Services and Transition Programs, are fully credentialed through the AIR Dogs: Paws for Minds program—a nationally respected organization that prepares therapy dog teams for the school environment. Additionally, Dr. Carr has completed Mental Health First Aid certification, equipping her with skills to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges in students and staff.
“Georgie’s presence brings joy, calm, and a sense of connection to our students,” said Dr. Carr. “The simplicity of her presence can have an extraordinary impact—especially during high-stress moments. Whether a student is feeling overwhelmed, anxious about a test, or navigating a difficult personal situation, the opportunity to sit with Georgie—even for just a few minutes—can be incredibly grounding.”
Research continues to support the positive impact of therapy dogs in educational settings. Studies show that the presence of therapy dogs in schools is associated with lowered cortisol levels, reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression, improved self-esteem, and even better classroom engagement. Therapy dogs can also serve as nonjudgmental listeners, making them especially helpful during literacy activities, speech therapy, and peer conflict resolution sessions.
Georgie’s schedule will include regular appearances across all Hoboken Public Schools, including visits to early childhood classrooms, elementary schools, and secondary school settings. She will join social-emotional learning (SEL) lessons, participate in individual and group counseling sessions, and be present at school wide wellness events, where her presence can provide comfort, companionship, and stress relief. Georgie will also be integrated into student support plans, including interventions for students experiencing grief, trauma, or other emotional hardships.
Beyond her role with students, Georgie will also serve as a source of emotional support for staff members—a unique feature of the program. As educators across the nation navigate increasing demands in the post-pandemic era, the emotional wellness of teachers, counselors, and school staff has become an urgent priority. Georgie’s calming influence will contribute to building a more connected and emotionally resilient school culture.
“We know that nurturing the hearts and minds of every student is critical,” said Dr. Christine Johnson, Superintendent of Schools. “The introduction of Georgie as a therapy dog is not just a feel-good story—it’s a serious, research-based investment in mental health. We recognize that learning cannot happen without emotional safety and support. Georgie helps us strengthen our school communities and deepen our commitment to the whole child. I commend Dr. Carr for her vision and tireless work to bring this initiative to life. We look forward to expanding this initiative and introducing more therapy dogs across the district.”
This program reflects a broader district-wide commitment to comprehensive mental health services and innovative, responsive education. Georgie’s presence aligns with ongoing efforts such as trauma-informed care training, peer mentoring programs, school-based counseling services, and family engagement workshops that prioritize wellness at every level.
The district is also exploring opportunities for students to learn from Georgie’s role, including through curriculum connections in science (animal behavior), literature (empathy and relationships), and health (coping strategies). In the future, the program may expand to include therapy dog literacy programs, student ambassador roles, and community-based outreach events.
“This is more than just a program—it’s a movement toward creating emotionally intelligent, inclusive schools where every individual feels valued, supported, and seen,” added Dr. Carr.
Georgie’s arrival has already been met with excitement by students, staff, and families across the Hoboken Public School District. Her impact will be felt not only in quieter moments of comfort, but in the larger culture of empathy and connectedness she helps to cultivate.
For more information about the district’s therapy dog initiative or School-Based Youth Services, please contact:
Kristin E. Carr, Ed.D.
Director of School-Based Youth Services and Transition Programs
[email protected]
Be sure to follow Georgie on Instagram @GeorgieTheRedwing to keep up with his adventures across the Hoboken Public School District!
