Pets Policy

In order to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for all students, GMSD prohibits pets on school grounds across all K-12 public schools within the district. This policy is essential to maintaining cleanliness, preventing potential allergies, and avoiding distractions during the educational process. However, an exception is made for service animals as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). According to the ADA, a service animal is a dog that has been individually trained to perform tasks or do work for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual, or other mental disability.

For a service animal to be approved for use within the school, the parent or guardian must arrange a meeting with district and building administration to discuss the specific role of the service animal in addressing the student's educational needs. During this meeting, detailed documentation must be provided, including proof of the animal's training, a description of the tasks it performs, and relevant medical or psychological evaluations that support the necessity of the service animal for the student. This documentation will be reviewed by the administration to ensure compliance with district policies and federal regulations.

The approval process is designed to balance the needs of the individual student with the overall welfare of the school community. The district is committed to accommodating students with disabilities while maintaining a safe and effective learning environment for all.