OPRFHS Welcomes Griff, New Facility Dog Supporting Student Wellness

Oak Park and River Forest High School (OPRFHS) is proud to introduce the newest member of the Huskie community: Griff, the OPRFHS Facility Dog. Griff joins the school through Paws Giving Independence, a nonprofit service-dog organization accredited by Assistance Dogs International (ADI).

Griff will work alongside Prevention and Wellness Coordinator Ginger Bencola, a certified School Social Worker trained in Animal-Assisted Social Work. For the past seven years, Bencola has brought volunteer therapy dogs into the building to support students; Griff’s arrival marks the school’s first full-time facility dog.

What Is a Facility Dog?

A facility dog is a highly trained working dog that partners with a professional in a school, hospital, counseling center, or similar setting. Unlike a service dog, which is trained to perform tasks for one individual with a disability, a facility dog assists multiple people, helping to reduce stress, build connections, and foster a positive climate.

Benefits of a Facility Dog

Research and school-based practice show that facility dogs can:

• Reduce stress and anxiety
• Provide comfort during difficult moments
• Increase engagement, motivation, and confidence
• Promote empathy and positive social behaviors
• Create a sense of safety and belonging
• Increase joy and overall well-being

Where Students Will See Griff

Griff will greet students for the first time on Wednesday, December 3. Throughout December, he will be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays during lunch in the Student Activity Center, as well as:

• In the Prevention & Wellness Office (Room 3151)
   
• During classroom lessons and wellness activities
   
• In support groups and designated meet-and-greets
   
• In hallways and at special school events

Beginning next semester, teachers may also request Griff’s presence for specific lessons, de-stressing activities, or community-building opportunities.

Health and Safety Considerations

OPRFHS is committed to ensuring that all students feel safe and comfortable around Griff.

• All interactions are optional.
   
• Staff will announce Griff’s presence and request verbal permission before he enters any classroom or space.
   
• The school will take steps to accommodate students with allergies or dog-related phobias.
   
• Griff will always be supervised, clean, and well-groomed.
   
• Parents/guardians may complete an opt-out form if they prefer that their student not interact with Griff in classroom or office settings.

Watch an informational video shared with students and families on our YouTube channel.

For more information about Griff or the facility-dog program at OPRFHS, please contact:
Kris Johnson, Director of Student Services
Email: KJohnson@oprfhs.org
Phone: 708-434-3258