Tyler is the latest reading companion for students at Sandyston-Walpack School, but he doesn’t comment on the books or the reading. Every Friday for the last two months, students read out loud to the 160-pound Great Pyrenees, who sits quietly, wags his tail, and occasionally receives belly scratches. Faculty members at the K-6 school in Layton, New Jersey, discussed innovative ways to boost student wellness during the pandemic and decided to experiment with therapy dogs. Principal Harold Abraham reached out to several animal groups and eventually connected with The Bright & Beautiful Therapy Dogs, a local nonprofit that offers behavior training to dogs. Tyler is the first dog to participate in the “Dog Tales” program at the school, which has increased student motivation and academic achievement, says Abraham. Teachers have noticed that many students who were once hesitant to read aloud are now improving at a rapid pace, and believe that the program has bolstered their social and e...