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"How's Ninja?"

That's a question I get asked quite often. Who would've thought that a my red-eared slider would impact so many people throughout her life with me? LONG before the studies of benefits of kids reading to a dog or cat ever began and almost two decades before emotional support animals became a thing, Ninja's presence in my classroom and office benefited a multitude of students and adults alike. When kids AND adults didn't feel comfortable speaking about a topic, they spoke to me through her. She offered a judgement-free safe space, decades before those were implemented. One of her greatest achievements was getting a selective mute student to finally speak and read aloud in class.

She was a trustworthy friend and adored by many. It's safe to say that I share whatever success I had as a classroom teacher and assistant principal to her. It's time to get to writing a book.

So, friends, if you want to know how Ninja is doing, after 23 or so years...she's now eternally resting.