One person’s idea of what was ‘trash’ has become an entire school’s treasure.
Simone’s journey from a neglected puppy to a cherished therapy dog at University Middle School is nothing short of remarkable. Found abandoned in a crate between two City of Memphis green trashcans, Simone has gone from being discarded to bringing joy and comfort to students every day.
A Good Samaritan discovered Simone and her two siblings in downtown Memphis, Tenn. The trio was malnourished, suffering from severe mange, and had burns on their paws from the scorching metal crate. Tails of Hope Dog Rescue quickly took them in, recognizing their fighting spirits despite the grim circumstances.
Simone is now a therapy dog. Photo by Chris Day
Once under the care of Tails of Hope, the puppies were named after resilient Olympians, with Simone being named after gymnast Simone Biles. As the dogs moved into foster homes, Simone’s calm and gentle demeanor began to shine. She showed signs of being an ideal therapy dog, especially with her patient and loving nature.
At the same time, University Middle School, part of the University of Memphis, was preparing to launch a pilot therapy dog program. Sally Parish, the vice provost and director of schools, reached out to Tails of Hope after the school received a grant from the Tennessee Department of Education. Having worked with the rescue before, Parish trusted them to find the perfect candidate.
“When I learned that we were selected to pilot this program, my first call was to a rescue agency with whom I had previously worked,” Parish said. “I knew they were a trusted, reputable organization that truly worked to help animals have a second chance at life.”
Tails of Hope recommended Simone for the role, and after her first visit to the school, she immediately won the hearts of students and staff alike. Parish adopted Simone, and her training as a therapy dog officially began. “Simone interviewed at the school a few days later, and she immediately captured the hearts of all our students and staff,” Parish said. Simone underwent intensive training at West Tennessee K9, focusing on basic obedience and specialized therapy dog skills. Her presence at the school quickly made a positive impact on the students. Parish said.
Students’ faces light up when they see her, and she immediately brings joy into any room she enters.”
For many students, Simone became more than just a friendly face. “For many children, Simone is something they can look forward to every day. She is a constant and is someone they can count on for unconditional love and support,” Parish explained. Simone’s comforting presence helped create a culture of kindness and joy within the school, breaking down barriers and allowing students to be their authentic selves.
Simone enjoys her adoption day toy. Photo by Chris Day
Simone’s influence extended to academic success as well. Parish shared, “We have a teacher who has researched the impact of Simone’s presence on student learning. When Simone spends time with her students before a quiz or a test, they perform better academically than when she is not there.”
At home, Simone continued to inspire Parish’s family with her resilience and calming spirit. Parish reflected, “She has taught us that everyone deserves love and that everyone can make a difference if they are only given a chance.”
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Sources: People | Commercial Appeal
