Students who frequent the school’s shop, Starbuffs, may have noticed new additions to its menu. Puppy Chow–for humans–has made its way to the school store and has been a big hit with the students and staff.

“From what I understand, it sells really good,” Lifeskills teacher Pam Dawson said. “Ms. Colclasure who runs the store, she’ll take a bag for herself before she even sells it.”

All of the profits made from the puppy chow will go towards a field trip for the special needs students. On a daily basis, it has given the students a bit more independence with this newfound income.

To make the puppy chow, it is a step by step process that the students have to go through such as washing their hands, figuring out measurements, and stove safety. 

“The kitchen is not big enough for some of the classes I have,” Dawson said. “We have to alternate and take turns doing the job so that everyone can participate.”

Dawson wanted her students to develop the ability to cook as some of her students have never touched a stove before. 

“I’d like to expand and make more things,” Dawson said. “And maybe have our own little store.”

This gives opportunities for students with special needs to develop more life skills rather than just learning, something they do not get to do often.