[nagdu] Staff cuts at guide dog schools

[Cindy Ray]

In the case of one of those schools, probably both, much of the renovation is updating the facility. In updating facilities, the organization can probably find other ways to improve them while in the process. They couldn't do that if they didn't do it now. I don't know if this is the time or not, but it is probably hard for us to determine that. In the case of one school, particularly in home turn overs, they are contracing with trainers who have been trained to prepare guide dog teams. Although I'm not sure how I feel about it, and the juryh may still be out on it, that could have bad moments, but it could also be an enriching experience. Other than that, I don't have much opinion about it as I have not called my particular school to seek assistance. I had some last year but I felt it was a little pointless; maybe part of that was my own attitude, but I don't think that was the whole of it.

I think at some level we have to understand that times they are a-changing, and at least some of the things we are seeing may well have to happen. Seeing this in my state, too, with regard to our state's budget. So I guess I will just watch and wait. 

Cindy Lou

On Apr 17, 2013, at 9:09 AM, Deanna Lewis <DLewis at clovernook.org> wrote:

> Hi list,
> I have heard of some very big changes in a couple of guide dog schools recently, and am a bit worried by it.
> I know that two very well respected Guide Dog schools have had large staffing cuts recently. Both schools let go of trainers/field reps with years of experience. Also, both schools are also renovating their dormitories. I am wondering if there is a connection? And also I am worried that this may become a trend with the training programs? I hope not.
> Do you know of any other schools who have done this recently?
> What do y'all think?
> I hope not to start a big debate, but I am just worried that many of the schools are headed towards being less client driven.
> 
> Deanna and Pascal
> 
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