Old Saybrook public schools pauses classroom pets, community pushed for policy change

OLD SAYBROOK, Conn. (WFSB) - Old Saybrook Public Schools has temporarily removed classroom pets after discovering multiple animals, including bearded dragons and a hermit crab, were being kept in classrooms without any district policy or formal approval process.

In a letter to parents, students, and staff, Superintendent Chris Drezek explained that while pets had been introduced in some classes without prior oversight, the district had no existing guidelines to ensure student safety or animal welfare.

Among the concerns raised were student allergies, the risk of disease transmission, and the need to coordinate with building administrators, nurses and the district medical advisor.

Bearded dragons in particular posed a health risk and after reviewing Centers for Disease Control guidance, district leaders determined that these animals may carry Salmonella and require strict cleaning protocols, especially around food areas.

According to the school, no formal procedure existed for class pets, so district leadership opted to remove all classroom animals while it develops clear policies.

The decision sparked disappointment among teachers and families, especially in instances where class pets had become more than just a novelty.

In one case, a second‑grade teacher received a grant to bring Oscar the bearded dragon into class, not only for science lessons, but also to serve as emotional support for students dealing with stress or anxiety.

“The teacher created a text message chain and we could share pictures and she also sent a journal home,” said Erin Torneo, parent.

Supporters say the animal’s presence strengthened learning and connection and helped students regulate emotions.

Oscar was brought in with parent permission first.

Many families had the privilege of taking him home for a week.

“We were new to the district last year, and it fostered this sense of community between the families taking care of him and dropping him off from house to house,” added Torneo.

Following that example, more than 100 community members have launched a petition urging the district to revise its stance.

The petition calls on Old Saybrook to adopt clear protocols that allow teachers discretion to introduce appropriate class pets, species suitable to the classroom environment, while safeguarding student health and achieving educational goals.

“We’re just concerned about the way it was communicated, the way the decision was made, there’s a better way to do this,” said Michael Bender, parent of a third grader.

The forum advocates for rules to define which species may be allowed, how to maintain proper care, and what role the animals will serve in supporting both curriculum and emotional wellness.

Superintendent Drezek acknowledged the outpouring of support.

“I deeply respect the commitment many teachers have shown in using pets to engage students,” he wrote. “The issue is not banning pets, it’s about doing it responsibly. That’s why we paused until we can establish formal procedures.”

He also pledged that policy drafts will be shared with the community for feedback.

Many students and parents have posted pro-class pet propaganda online and campaigned to ‘Free Oscar’ on social media.

“I just think we can’t be taking away all of these joyful hands on things that are part of childhood and speaking curiosity and wonder,” added Torneo.

As the district works to propose a new framework, petition organizers hope to maintain momentum and push for a balanced policy that blends safety, education and compassion.