Northbrook Elementary Principal Pens Children's Book About Beloved School Dog

NORTHBROOK, IL — Five years ago, at the height of the pandemic, a special goldendoodle service dog was introduced to the Northbrook School District 28 community, specifically Greenbriar School. Krieger, who is trained to provide emotional support for students, was an immediate hit.

Now, the four-legged friend is the subject of a new book by Dr. Ginny Hiltz, principal at the district's Meadowbrook School. "Krieger's Crew: A School Facility Dog's Journey," will be published in November.

"Facility dogs, a special type of trained therapy dog, can fill a unique role and have a huge positive impact on their school communities," Hiltz said.

RELATED: Goldendoodle Joins Staff At Greenbriar School In Northbrook

As Patch reported in 2020, Krieger was trained by Canines4Comfort, a non-profit organization serving northern Illinois. The organization places dogs with veterans, children and other community members for emotional and psychological support. At the time, Krieger was the first dog Canines4Comfort had ever placed to work at a school.

According to District 28, Hiltz, a former teacher and librarian, has always dreamed of publishing a children's book. She found great inspiration in seeing the impact Krieger, who lives with Hiltz when school's not in session, has made on children. Hiltz's book, illustrated by New Hampshire-based artist Wickie Rowland, tells the story of how Krieger "helps the students and teachers at his school every day."

"Krieger's Crew: A School Facility Dog's Journey" is available for preordering on the book's website here.