(Gemma with Intermediate students; (L-R) Adelyn Stamps, Hareem Chaudhary and Reet Kaur)

There’s a new four-legged presence bringing smiles, calm, and connection to New Albany-Plain Local Schools—and her name is Gemma. (Her full name is Gemini but her shortened name is Gemma.)

Gemma, a gentle Black Labrador Golden Retriever cross, is housed at New Albany Intermediate School, but her impact reaches far beyond one building. As the district’s new therapy dog, Gemma is here to spread joy, offer comfort, and build meaningful connections with students and staff across our entire school community.

From New Albany to a New Purpose

Gemma’s journey is one that began right here in New Albany. She was originally raised and trained by the Berman family including Olivia (8th Grade) and Madison (7th Grade) (pictured at the right when Gemma was a pup). Gemini’s placement with the Berman’s was through Canine Companions, a nationally recognized organization with its North Central Training Center right here in New Albany.  Canine Companions prepares dogs for work as service dogs, facility dogs, and therapy dogs.  Throughout her puppy classes with the Bermans and additional training at Canine Companions it quickly became clear that Gemini had something special to offer.

Gemma’s calm demeanor, affectionate nature, and natural ability to connect with people made her an ideal candidate for therapy dog work—a role that allows her to provide emotional support, companionship, and comfort in a school setting.

What a Therapy Dog Means for Our Schools
A therapy dog plays a unique and valuable role in a school environment. Unlike service dogs, therapy dogs are trained to provide emotional support and stress relief through positive interactions. In schools, that can look like:

• Helping students feel calmer during moments of anxiety or stress
• Offering comfort during challenging days or transitions
• Encouraging positive social interactions
• Supporting mental health and emotional well-being
• Simply bringing smiles, laughter, and a sense of ease

Research and experience alike show that therapy dogs can help create a more welcoming, inclusive, and supportive school climate. Gemma’s presence reinforces our district’s commitment to caring for the whole child—and the whole staff member, too.

In Caring Hands
Gemini is handled by Mrs. Kelley Schubert, school counselor at New Albany Intermediate School. Under Mrs. Schubert’s guidance, Gemma will interact with students and staff in thoughtful, intentional ways that prioritize safety, comfort, and well-being.

Together, they form a team focused on connection—whether that’s a quiet moment with a student who needs reassurance, a visit that brightens a long day, or a friendly wagging tail greeting someone in the hallway.

Spreading Joy, One Paw at a Time
While Gemma may have an official home base at the Intermediate School, she will work alongside Mrs. Schubert which may lead to district-wide experiences.  Her mission is simple but powerful: to share love, friendship, and joy wherever it’s needed.

We are proud to welcome Gemma to the New Albany-Plain Local Schools family and grateful for the many ways she will support our students and staff—one gentle nudge, comforting presence, and happy tail wag at a time.

Interactions with Gemma
Students or staff should not feed Gemma.
If you see Gemma and want to pet her it is OK to approach Mrs. Schubert and ask if you can pet the dog.
You should not try to give any commands to Gemma.