Evergreen High School uses therapy dogs to support students after shooting

Evergreen High School in Colorado has implemented a therapy dog program to assist students and staff in recovering from a school shooting that occurred in September 2025. The incident involved a 16-year-old student who wounded two peers before taking his own life.

Two golden Labradors, Norene and Polenta, are part of the initiative. They visit classrooms and walk the halls to provide a calming presence, helping students manage stress and maintain focus. The dogs are provided free of charge through Canine Companions, a California-based nonprofit. This marks the first time the organization has matched dogs specifically with a school following an on-campus shooting.

School Principal Skyler Artes, who sheltered with students during the attack, has decided to train as a support dog handler after witnessing the positive impact the animals have had on the school community.