This school year, we’ve opened our doors to a new assistant principal, Sabrina Elsinger, and her service animal Georgia, a six-month-old Rottweiler mix.

Elsinger has worked with Broward County Public Schools for 26 years. She has been a teacher and a behavioral specialist, along with being an assistant principal for 17 years. She comes to Pompano Beach High looking for new opportunities and experience with students and staff alike. “I look forward to building strong relationships with the students, parents, staff and community and watching the students become successful members of society,” Elsinger said.

She also hopes to bring many new ideas to the school, education-wise. “I have worked at various levels, doing various jobs. I also helped create a 6–12 Collegiate Academy, so I feel well versed in different aspects of the educational system,” Elsinger said.

Along with her, Elsinger brings her furry friend and service animal, Georgia. “I have had her since she was eight weeks old. She is the best,” Elsinger said. “She is in extensive training to be my personal service animal.”

Service animals are generally known as a sensitive topic, as oftentimes young adults, children and even grown adults aren’t sure of the purpose or limitations of them. Elsinger hopes to help people learn that not all disabilities are obvious. Unfortunately, sometimes people have negative reactions or will claim someone “does not need a service animal.” They perceive disabilities as something only seen with your eyes, which isn’t true.

Service animals are crucial to the functionality of many, as they can help warn people of oncoming panic attacks, episodes and triggers — all while keeping their owners safe and calm. “She is getting used to being exposed to various environments without difficulty. People need to understand that asking what service the animal does for someone can be a personal question, and although it seems like a good question, it can make the other person uncomfortable,” Elsinger said.

She stresses that despite Georgia’s youth and playfulness, she is still being trained for obedience, and they work on sharpening her skills as frequently as possible. “A service animal can help people in a variety of ways. [Georgia] is still a puppy and in training, so I try to take that into account with her daily activities with me, but she is doing extremely well for her age,” Elsinger said.

As Elsinger settles into her role at Pompano Beach High School, she not only brings years of experience but a fresh new perspective on empathy and inclusion. With Georgia by her side, she hopes to foster a culture of support and empowerment to help students learn about the crucial help a service animal can provide. As Georgia completes her training, Elsinger hopes we can grow together as a community.