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Bompas class embraces furry friend
Pet rabbit teaches students responsibility, social skills

April Hudson
Northern News Services
Thursday, January 28, 2016

LIIDLII KUE/FORT SIMPSON
At the beginning of the school year, Jean hopped into the Grade 3 classroom at Bompas Elementary School and stole the hearts of more than a dozen students.

NNSL photo/graphic

Dejah Horesay reaches into the cage to pet the rabbit. - April Hudson/NNSL photo

There are 15 students in the Grade 3 class at Bompas. Teacher Silène Hébert said she brought in the rabbit as a teaching lesson for her students.

"They learn responsibility in a fun way, and they are able to build empathy," she said.

"They're learning what's needed to take care of a pet and what animals need to live."

Now that students are halfway through the school year, Hébert said the project has been a classroom hit. Students are required to take care of the animal on a rotational basis according to a job board Hébert keeps on the wall.

She acquired the rabbit in September from a community member who was moving away.

"He was either going to be making bunny soup or I was going to take it. I thought, well, I really want a class pet because it'll be great for the kids," Hébert said.

"It's also great for children in the class with autism. That's a huge thing for this class."

For children with autism, Jean provides a means for students to learn social skills and interact with a creature without the need to speak.

Jean is still getting used to her new family and does not like to be picked up, although she lets the students pet her.

On Jan. 21, classmates Dejah Horesay and Colton Isaiah were on bunny duty. The duo were responsible for cleaning Jean's cage, sweeping the floor, cleaning her litter box and making sure she has enough food and water.

"It's nice to have a pet. It's better than a dog because they bark a lot but Jean is nice and quiet," said Horesay.

"She's still kind of shy of the class but my favourite thing about her is that she lets us pet her."

Although her name is Jean, some of the students call her Snow because of her long white fur.

"She's like a fuzzball -so soft," said Lilyana Grossetete. "Taking care of her is like having a real job - it's fun."

Setue Isaiah, who often goes trapping with her family, said it can be weird to take care of a rabbit after trapping others. However, she rose to the task when required, recognizing her teacher's desire to instill a sense of responsibility.

"Our duties are important," she said.

Students designated to take care of the rabbit can ask their classmates for help as well, if need be, which Hébert said teaches them to work together.

Jean is the only class pet at Bompas.

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