DULUTH, Minn. (Northern News Now) - Birch Grove Community School added a new member to the classroom this year named Walter; with just three days on the job so far, he’s a hit with the kids coming back to school.

Walter is a 6-month-old golden retriever therapy dog. He was adopted through the Liberty K9 program by his owner and handler, Sara Knottski, who is also a teacher at Birch Grove Community School.

While Walter has only been on the job for a few days, it’s clear he’s found his place at school, greeting the students each day as they arrive.

“Even just coming in the door, the kids are happy, they’re excited, they get to see somebody cute, to pet them before they get going on what they’re learning,” says Knottski.

Walter went through basic obedience classes and extended therapy cou

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