The student news site of Carlmont High School in Belmont, California.

Scot Scoop News
The student news site of Carlmont High School in Belmont, California.

Scot Scoop News
The student news site of Carlmont High School in Belmont, California.

Scot Scoop News

In Photos: Barnyard Buddies help students peck away at stress

Wesley Kron, Staff Writer • April 1, 2026
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Wesley Kron
Assistant program manager of Barnyard Buddies May De Waal pets a guinea pig named Connie. De Waal and other volunteers visited the campus to provide students with stress relief before AP test season begins. "I've had people come in a little tense, and you could see them relax when they see our animals," De Waal said.

The Animal Assisted Happiness barnyard visited Carlmont High School during lunch as part of their Barnyard Buddies program on Thursday, March 26, bringing a variety of trained animals to campus. The event gave students a chance to relax and interact with goats, guinea pigs, chickens, and more in a calm, welcoming setting before the start of Advanced Placement (AP) test season.  Since 2009, the organization has relied on volunteers and specially socialized animals to help people of all ages experience the happiness and comfort that comes from animal companionship.

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About the Contributor
Wesley Kron
Wesley Kron, Staff Writer
Wesley Kron (class of 2026) is a senior and a third-year journalist at Carlmont High School. He is excited to write articles for Scot Scoop and edit for the Highlander. He enjoys wrestling at Carlmont and the Belmont Wrestling Academy Club and wiping out while surfing with his family in his free time. He is also pursuing a career in nursing in order to gain the skills necessary to take care of his fat cat Vinny.