November is almost over, and Christmas is just around the corner. 2022 is coming to an end with all its highs and lows. This week, we’ve lined up a news report about a student’s struggle to have his Service Dog attend classes with him in high school. The story raises several concerns the Service and Emotional Support Animal community should be aware of.
Family States Freehold’s Regional School District Refuses To Allow Son’s Service Animal For PTSD In Class
Justin Forman, a New Jersey high school student, is fighting to return to his classes with Dreyfus, his Service Animal.
The Freehold Regional School District has refused to let Forman attend classes with Dreyfus, and last week, he and his family were denied entry to a school board meeting due to the animal’s presence.
Forman has been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) as a result of emotional and physical abuse. Under federal law (Americans with Disabilities Act), PTSD is a recognized condition that allows Forman the use of a Service Animal. Justin states his panic attacks can be random and triggered by things unrelated to the source of the PTSD.
The Forman family acquired Dreyfus for their son in 2021 from a specialized facility in Washington State. Alisa Forman (Justin’s mother) claims that Dreyfus keeps Justin from hurting himself during his panic attacks. They think of the Service Dog as necessary, whereas the Freehold District views Dreyfus as a pet.
In her email to the family, the Director of Special Services for the School District, Dr. Jessica Howland, stated, “…A Service Dog is not one that provides comfort by its mere presence; nor does a Service Dog require commands to perform its task. If Justin requires a weighted blanket, those can be provided. If Justin requires prompting to take his fingers out of his mouth, the teacher or therapist working with Justin can provide that prompting.”
The Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) allows students with a disability to have their Service Animals at school as long as they meet the ADA definition.
For now, Justin is out of school due to his PTSD. The Forman family has another meeting scheduled with the School District on Nov 29th.
Source: News12
CertaPet’s Thoughts on This Week’s News
If an individual and their Service Animal meet the criteria provided by the ADA, they generally can’t be denied access. The only time a Service Dog can be denied entry is if it poses a risk safety and health of others. We’re hoping the Freehold School District and the Forman family can come to an amicable understanding and that Justin can return to school with Dreyfus soon.
If you’re living with a mental illness, getting an Emotional Support Animal could really help your recovery. These loving animals could ease your symptoms and help you live a happier, fuller life. If you’re ready to start the process, take our 5-minute pre-screening test for free. We’ll connect you with a licensed mental health professional, who will have a consultation with you. Then, if you qualify, you’ll get your ESA letter in no time.