8 ❚ The ATA News , January 13, 2026
Teachers shared pictures of their pets along with an explanation of how their cuddly critters help them in their profession. PET Teacher’s
Luca (short-haired tuxedo cat) This is Luca! She is my leash-trained cat who loves adventure, and she has been a regular visitor at Barnwell School since we adopted her from a local rescue in 2022! She visits my classroom a few times a year to help my kindergarten class learn about how animals move, as well as how to care for animals. She visits Grade 9 science to talk about animal adaptations, plus she’s just fun to have around. Kids love to take her for walks in her stroller during recess. She has been a comfort animal for a student with special needs who loved cats. I would arrange for her visit after long breaks from school to help the student settle. At home, she’s a loyal companion who reminds me when it’s time take a break (usually by walking on my keyboard!). Barb Arend, kindergarten teacher and principal, Barnwell School
Fancy (Welsh/Arabian-cross pony) I breed and train my ponies for combined carriage driving, which is a sport that combines precision driving with speed and endurance. My ponies give me exercise, confidence and a listening ear when I’ve had a tough day at work. Working in a tiny country school, I find that they give me a connection to my students, most of whom live on farms. Kyla Cranston, Grade 3/4 teacher, Reed Ranch School
Tonka
My little Morkie boy Tonka is my computer screensaver and the topic of most of the stories that I tell my students. In the mornings when we review our phonics sound cards, I hold up the sound card to the screensaver and ask, “Tonka, what’s the sound?”Then I’ll reveal the sound card to the students. It’s silly, but a fun little thing. Sometimes, during attendance, instead of saying “here” the kids will say “I love Tonka!”, which is very cute and funny. For me, he’s the best thing to come home to after a busy day at the school. He reminds me that regardless of how the day went, he loves me and depends on me. The moment I see his wagging tail, all my worries disappear! Megan Blacklaws, Grade 2 teacher, Bannerman School
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