Meet Breaker

Breaker is a therapy dog at the Tamaqua Area High School, adopted by Special Education Teacher, Jessica Paisley. His role is to support students by providing a calm, comforting presence in the school environment. He helps reduce stress and anxiety, encourages emotional regulation, and offers quiet companionship during challenging moments. Through his gentle interactions, Breaker fosters a sense of safety and well-being that helps students feel more focused, confident, and ready to learn. Additionally, he is integrated into the curriculum to promote learning through structured activities in classes such as Psychology, Math, Science, Social Studies, Food Production, Graphic Design, and Physical Education. Breaker also participates in animal assisted interventions for occupational therapy, social work, and speech therapy.

Breaker has received beginner, intermediate, advanced, brain games, and therapy dog certificate classes through the PetSmart Organization where he is also brought in to teach other dogs through demonstrations of his skills. He has earned his AKC Good Citizenship Certification, and is a Canine Partner registered with the AKC as a Siberian Husky Mix.

https://www.wnep.com/article/news/local/schuylkill-county/meet-the-tamaqua-area-school-districts-new-therapy-dog-schuylkill-county/523-e2676b9f-3e5e-47fa-9fbe-1d02bbc62c0c

Mrs. Paisley and Breaker are also Nationally Registered through the Pet Partners Organization as a Therapy Team which allows them to volunteer in community settings, as well as participate in Walk With Me and Read With Me initiatives. Anyone with questions or concerns about Breaker or his role can reach out to Mrs. Paisley at any time.