Pets in the Classroom

Pets in the Classroom is a program dedicated to enhancing students' educational and personal development through interaction with classroom pets. The program supports Pre-K through 12th grade teachers by providing grants that assist in purchasing and setting up habitats for classroom pets. Grants are designed to help teachers not only acquire pets but also to promote ongoing care and responsible pet ownership, encouraging a lifelong relationship with animals. Each teacher is eligible for one initial grant in their lifetime and a yearly $50.00 sustaining grant thereafter, with grants following the teacher rather than the school. The initial grant offers options like store coupons, rebates, or store-specific discounts at various pet stores, provided the store is in the teacher's area and the pet is legal in their jurisdiction. Teachers can choose from multiple grant options, including rebate grants of $75 or $125 if they prefer shopping at their neighborhood pet store or want specific pet types. The organization emphasizes responsible pet ownership, pet care, and educational benefits through a variety of resources such as pet care sheets, lesson plans, and contest opportunities. It also advocates for responsible pet ownership, disease prevention, and humane treatment of the animals involved. The program is supported by partnerships with pet stores, sponsors, and donors, fostering collaboration on educational initiatives. The organization’s mission is rooted in promoting the human-animal bond and making classroom animals accessible and educational for students across the U.S. and Canada. They also provide various resources, including lesson plans, fun facts about animals, coloring sheets, and video contests to engage students and teachers in animal education. The foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supported by contributions from individuals, companies, associations, and foundations, with a focus on responsible pet ownership education. The organization is headquartered at 2331 Rock Spring Road, Forest Hill, MD 21050, and can be contacted by phone at (443) 966-3167.**