Holiday Wishes
4 • The Beacon January 2 , 2025
MORE THAN JUST A
OG
The healing power of Luna at Ridgewood Schools
By Josie Sellers For The Beacon
Ridgewood Local Schools ’ four-legged staff member has had a rough year but was able to come help make the holidays special for students . Luna has been a part of Ridgewood Local Schools since 2019 and began serving as a full-time therapy dog in 2022 . This year , however , Luna has not been as physically present in the halls due to recovering from ACL surgery .
“ While her usual routine of walking the halls and visiting classrooms has been limited , she continues to support students and staff through other means during her recovery ,” said Autumn Hendershot , Luna ’ s
Holiday Wishes
Luna was part of Comfort and Joy at Ridgewood Middle School . owner .
Prior to Christmas , Luna took part in Tales , Tunes , and Tail Wags at Ridgewood Elementary School and Comfort and Joy at Ridgewood Middle School .
“ These events provided a chance to celebrate Luna ’ s important role in the Ridgewood community while offering students a moment of comfort and connection with their favorite therapy dog ,” Hendershot said . During the elementary school event , Hendershot read Christmas stories with dog characters and discussed the students ’ pets at home . Shannon Folkert led the students in singing Christmas carols , accompanied by Luna on the piano .
“ Students then participated
Luna took part in Tales , Tunes and Tail Wags at Ridgewood Elementary School .
in various activities including a Christmas game with Mr . Gress , holiday crafting with Mrs . Hire or one-on-one time with Luna ,” Hendershot said .
At the middle school ’ s event , students wrote down their wishes for 2025 on paper snowflakes and hung them in the library , sharing their hopes with Luna .
“ We try to use the Christmas season as a way to connect our staff and students ,” said Shawn Miller , RMS principal . “ It is good for students to see their
Submitted teachers as they participate in fun activities and provide opportunities for fun and enjoyment . I especially enjoy the creative expressions , whether it ’ s through a school play , band and choir concerts , art displays , or festive activities that highlight the students ’ talents and holiday spirit . These moments remind us of the importance of connection and celebration in building a strong school culture .”
Having Luna at the school and taking part in special events also benefits the students .
“ It was clear that seeing them again brought her joy and comfort as well . She has always been a source of emotional support for them , and her recovery journey has taught everyone the value of perseverance and resilience .”
Autumn Hendershot
Submitted
“ She serves as a calming presence and promotes a sense of connection among students as they interact with her ,” Miller said . “ I am amazed how many students take time out of their school day to make sure they see Luna when she is in the middle school . Additionally , her presence reinforces many positives that we try to teach our students throughout the school year .”
Hendershot said it was heartwarming to see Luna interact with students at the Christmas events .
“ It was clear how much they missed her presence , and it was touching to see their excitement and joy as they spent time with her during the holiday events ,” she said . “ Their love for Luna and the bond they share was evident in their smiles and the affection they showed toward her .”
Luna also benefited from seeing her young friends .
“ It was clear that seeing them again brought her joy and comfort as well ,” Hendershot said . “ She has always been a source of emotional support for them , and her recovery journey has taught everyone the value of perseverance and resilience . Her positive response to being surrounded by the students shows just how much they mean to her as well . The interaction was mutually beneficial , with Luna offering her usual calming presence while receiving the love and affection she so generously gives .”