By Jose Nagore & Julian Tellez
Baxter, a two and a half-year-old Boston Terrier, has become a “regular” at Pueblo with his owner, teacher Ms. Christina Benitez, making students and teachers smile throughout the day.
Baxter was adopted by Benitez back in 2021 and can be found roaming around Pueblo, mainly within Benitez’s Credit Recovery classroom, Room 254.
“I love Baxter!” said math teacher Ms. Rhesa Olsen, whose classroom is adjacent to Benitez’ room. “He is adorable and very comforting!”
According to Benitez, Baxter was at first “smuggled” into Pueblo, but admin liked the idea of Baxter improving morale at Pueblo and allowed him to keep returning. Baxter has been helping students stay positive during his “visits” ever since.
“I like it when Baxter is in the classroom,” said junior Skylese Grajeda, a student in Benitez’ classroom. “He really makes me feel relaxed in the classroom.”
Benitez lost her previous dog after 12 years.
She said, “I felt lonely without a companion, and I kept going to animal shelters to find a new pet. It wasn’t until I went to Animal Kingdom that I found Baxter. He licked my leg, and I felt like Baxter chose me to adopt him.”
Benitez hopes that Baxter will stay with her throughout the rest of her teaching career.