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Kilo's Corner

Kilo's Korner Therapy Dog and Owner Karissa Martin

 

Column Editor

Karissa Martin
Lakes Country
Academy - Alexandria
Special Education Teacher
Kilo’s Corner: Pawsitive Updates from Your Furry Friend!
 
Woof!
Hi friends! I’m Kilo — the newest and fluffiest member of the Alexandria Lakes Country Academy team. As the school therapy dog, I take my job very seriously: spreading calm, comfort, and a whole lot of love. Oh, and getting lots of treats! Every day, I get to spend time with students who have big hearts, big feelings, and sometimes big challenges. Some of my best buddies are the staff and students in LCA’s Setting 4 Behavioral and SUN (Students with Unique Needs) programs, who shine in their own unique ways. School can feel tricky or overwhelming sometimes… but that’s when I step in with my superpowers: soft fur, gentle cuddles, and a calm presence.
 
In Kilo’s Corner, I’ll share the special moments from my week — the little victories that make big differences.
You might hear about:
  • A student who makes good choices throughout their day to earn extra time with me.
  • My reading buddies who curl up beside me with their favorite book and practice their words while I listen extra carefully.
  • The way brushing my coat helps a student slow down, reset, and feel proud of themselves
  • Small wins — like a smile, a quiet “hi,” or a gentle pet from a student who usually needs extra time to feel safe.
I want to show everyone just how powerful connection can be — especially the kind that comes from a wagging tail and unconditional love. My goal is simple: help every student know they are safe, understood, and never alone.
Until next time… keep your tails wagging and your hearts open!

Happy Thanksgiving!

A Black Dog Named Kilo Looking Out the Window at Lakes Country Academy

It’s almost Thanksgiving break! Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays because my mom lets me have yummy food instead of the same old boring food I normally get. I am finishing my 1st quarter of being a therapy dog at LCA Alexandria. I love working here… except the getting up early part! But as soon as I get to school every day, I get to walk around and say good morning to the other staff, who are all so happy to see me and sometimes even give me treats!

I know when it's time for the students to come because my mom makes me put on my work vest, which helps me and the students know that I am here to work. I love helping the students have good days! Today, one of the students was feeling sad and asked to have some time to just sit and talk to me. I think I made her feel better!

One of my favorite times of the day is when we go for our walk after lunch! We all line up on the Xs by the door, and I get to be the line leader! Then we go outside, and I show the kids how important it is to get movement and fresh air! Sometimes we walk a whole mile, and the kids feel so proud of themselves after. I like helping kids feel calm, happy, and loved, and getting treats in the process. I think I have the best job in the whole wide world, and I can’t wait to keep learning how to be the best therapy dog I can be!

Woof,

Kilo