MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. – Students in the special education program at Miami Southridge Senior High School have found an unlikely classmate who’s making a big difference in their lives – Charlie, a French bulldog who serves as their emotional support animal.
Charlie’s journey to becoming a school staple started when students in the STAR program visited Miami-Dade Animal Services. After watching his adoption process, they quickly grew attached.
“So the kids were under the impression that he was their dog because they were there when we adopted him, they were there for all the paperwork,” special education teacher Lisa Spires said. “And so they kept saying, ‘Can we see Charlie? When are you going to bring him to school?’”
What was meant to be a short visit turned into a permanent role, with Charlie now part of the students’ routine — providing comfort, companionship and learning opportunities.
“For our kids, just being able to take care of something, some of them don’t have dogs, getting to play with him, getting to see, ‘OK, it’s time for a nap, it’s time to feed him, it’s time for water,’” Spires said.
Beyond their bond with Charlie, the students give back to animals in need. Each week, they collect pet donations and take trips into the community — including visits to Miami-Dade Animal Services to drop off supplies.
“These students are a real inspiration to all of us,” Local 10 Animal Advocate Jacey Birch said. “Every single week, they’re out in the community, volunteering their time, collecting donations and making a real difference.”
For the young adults in the program, their experiences with Charlie and in the community help prepare them for the future.
“Since you’re learning so much in this program, what do you want to do one day, do you want to have a job?” Birch asked STAR student Anaya Motley.
“Yeah,” Motley replied. “I want to work at Publix.”
Another student, Francisco Castillo, already has a career goal in mind: “For dogs. I want to work with dogs.”
As Charlie continues to brighten the students’ days, their teachers say the lessons they’re learning — both in and out of the classroom — will last a lifetime.
Click here for more information on pets who are looking for a forever home.
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