By Friendswood ISD Communication Department
The Friendswood High School Quest classroom is home to a new furry friend as of Monday,
December 6. Rio, a trained Labrador retriever, will serve as a working facility dog for the special
education students in an effort to engage students, help students develop a sense of responsibility and cooperation and encourage feelings of calm and security.
FHS Quest Teacher Ashley Naylor has been training to have a working dog in her classroom for
the past two years. She obtained her facility dog certification and was paired with Rio through
the Canine Companions organization.
Executive Director of Special Education Dahria Driskell shared her excitement for the classroom
addition.
“[Rio] has won the hearts of students and staff,” Driskell said. “Welcome to the Mustang family,
Rio.”
Friendswood ISD would like to thank Parkwood Animal Hospital and Gimmie-a-Bark for
donating their products and services to help support Rio’s care. Additional gratitude is extended
to the FISD Education Foundation and the FHS Student Grant Committee for additional funding
to help support this program.
