Maybe some of our bickering state and national lawmakers could take a hint from the Warren County School District. If you are seeking a more positive climate to make things happen, call in the dogs.

During a recent Board of Education meeting, Director of Pupil Service Dr. Patricia Mead gave an update on the PAWSitive Support noting that more of these four-legged friends could be on the way. Mead said the two facility dogs — Pepper and Hero, who both attended the meeting — had been very successful and were meeting the proposed goals of the program of improving school climate and enhancing social and emotional services.

“The students, parents, and teachers were all surveyed at the beginning of the school year,” she said. “Seventy-five percent of students and 78 percent of staff believe they have improved the school climate. Fifty percent of students and 53 percent of staff believe they have enhanced the social emotional aspect of the school community.”

Support for the dogs seems to be overwhelming as well. Mead noted surveys indicate a strong backing for the program – with more than 1,500 comments coming from the community. Others at the meeting seemed to agree.

“It’s been a great program in my mind,” Committee Chairman Joe Colosimo said. “I’ve spoken with a number of students and teachers and they’ve had nothing but positive things to say.”

In an era of divisiveness, it’s good to know dogs still bring out the best in all of us.