Collaboration happens on so many levels every day at BOCES; here’s the story behind this photo:
Patrick Mitrione, who teaches graphic design at the Career Education Center is the father of a child with autism. Several years ago, the family was lucky enough to be matched with Kelso, a gentle, loving, smart, well-trained service dog.
Knowing how autistic children interact with dogs such as Kelso, Mr. Mitrione occasionally uses his lunch and after-class hours and walks with Kelso to the Kaplan School, so that students there get some quality time with the dog.
The moment Kelso enters a classroom, the change in energy is palpable. Kaplan teachers also note that he also serves as a teacher’s aide as student’s experience hands-on learning as they offer Kelso controlled portions of snacks.