The Indianola School Board reviewed the District Mental Health System Data at their meeting Tuesday, which included an Equine Therapy Program pilot. Superintendent Art Sathoff tells KNIA News the program partners with Camp Wesley Woods and mental health therapists for students to spend time with horses. Sathoff also said the program, despite being in its beginning stage and with limited students, was a huge success.

“I think they went out about six times for two hours per visit. There’s a lot of science behind equine therapy just in terms of learning how to regulate emotions and working with that animal. I think anyone that is an animal lover whether it’s horses or dogs or whatever, we understand that there can be a bond there. And that animals are totally non-judgemental, they aren’t going to go blast you on Facebook or hold a grudge or anything else. It’s a bonding opportunity, a chance for students to learn how to regulate their own emotions, and have a positive experience.”

The program was available through a grant awarded by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds with federal money for $155,000.