Story by Curtis Walsh – Beaver County Radio. Published January 28, 2025 8:09 A.M.
The photo above shows Parker.

(New Brighton, Pa) January is School Directors Appreciation month, and New Brighton Superindent Dr. Joseph Gaurino found a unique way to show appreciation to the district’s School Board.

Dr. Gaurino invited a special guest to the meeting, Parker, who is a therapy dog. Parker has become an important part of the elementary school, where he helps students on a regular basis. Gaurino credits the school board for allowing Parker to be a part of student life.

Parker’s journey with New Brighton started in 2021. 2nd Grade Teacher and Parker’s caretaker Lisa Patterson, approached Dr. Gaurino with the idea, who admits that originally he thought it was crazy. However, since then Parker has helped countless students when they are having a bad day or need assistance of any kind.

Parker shown with Lisa Patterson

Dr. Gaurino expressed his pride in New Brighton for being the first school in the county to have a therapy dog.

Patterson told Beaver County Radio about an event where the school lost electricity and Parker helped to comfort students. She also says students are always excited to see him when they get off the bus. Parker even answers to letters that students write to him.

Students also have the opportunity to be awarded with time to read to Parker, among other activities.

Elementary principal Jason Hall commented that Parker is the best person working in the building and he even has his own office.

Parker primarily visits the school on Fridays and other special days while attending school events as well. He has also made his way on to to district social media pages.

Dr. Gaurino commented that Patterson has a miniature horse as well, but they are sticking with just Parker for now.