News / Press

(Hamden, CT – March 13, 2026) — Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is proud to welcome Lily, a highly trained facility dog donated by the nonprofit organization Puppies Behind Bars, to support students and staff at ACES Village School. Lily joins ACES’ beloved facility dog Heidi, expanding the agency’s commitment to student wellness, emotional support, and safe learning environments.

Lily will work daily at ACES Village School alongside her handler, Village School social worker Kim Roche, providing comfort, connection, and encouragement to students and staff throughout the school day. Her calm presence helps students regulate emotions, reduce stress, and build confidence as they engage in learning.

Like Heidi, Lily completed approximately 10,000 hours of professional training and socialization through Puppies Behind Bars, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization that trains service dogs through a unique program pairing incarcerated individuals with professional trainers. This extensive preparation equips facility dogs to work in schools and other community settings to support emotional wellness and positive engagement.

ACES welcomed its first facility dog, Heidi, in December 2025. Partnered with ACES School Safety Officer Rich Simons, Heidi works through the ACES Center for SchoolSafety & Wellness, supporting students and staff across ACES schools, partner districts, and community initiatives throughout south-central Connecticut. Heidi previously served at a major Ivy League university in Connecticut, where she became a trusted presence promoting wellness and connection for students and staff.

The addition of Lily further strengthens ACES growing wellness initiative. While Lily’s primary role will be supporting the Village School community, she will also occasionally join Heidi in providing comfort and support at ACES programs, partner districts, and community events when needed.

“Facility dogs like Heidi and Lily play a powerful role in helping students feel calm, connected, and ready to learn,” said Dr. Thomas M. Danehy, Executive Director of ACES. “Their presence helps create environments where students feel safe and supported, which is essential for both learning and well-being. We are excited to welcome Lily to the Village School community and look forward to continuing to expand this type of support across our programs in the future.”

Through their presence in classrooms, counseling spaces, and school activities, these highly trained facility dogs help build trust, reduce anxiety, and bring moments of joy to students and staff alike. Together, Heidi and Lily represent ACES continued commitment to innovative supports that strengthen school communities and prioritize student wellness.

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About ACES:
Area Cooperative Educational Services (ACES) is the regional educational service center for New Haven and parts of Middlesex and Fairfield Counties. ACES serves school districts through innovative programs and services that meet the needs of a changing educational landscape. ACES operates magnet, special education, and alternative schools, as well as providing a wide range of educational services including professional development, transportation, translation, and adult vocational programs. Learn more at www.aces.org.