JVS criminal justice students welcome bearded dragon to class

Criminal justice students at Jefferson County Joint Vocational School have a new pet project for their program, a bearded dragon named Judge.

Instructor Jamie Freeman acquired the young lizard through the Pet Supplies Plus Pets in the Classroom project to teach her students about responsibility. Judge joined the class March 12 and is housed in a terrarium inside the lab, but can travel home with students who will ensure his care.

The reptiles may grow up to 2 feet long, and their heads contain rows of spikes that resemble thorns. They also have rows of spiked scales that, when puffed up, resemble a beard and can change colors, turning darker when breeding or provoked. Bearded dragons are native to Australia but were introduced to the U.S. in the 1990s, and since then they have become increasingly popular.

Freeman said the pet project was her students’ idea, and they were excited to see it come true. It began when JVS students and instructors had their animals on hand for the animal science management program, and her students sought to include a special new member in their class.

“They said we needed a class pet, and they found the grant,” she said. “We can apply each year for a sustainability grant, and I received coupons for supplies.”

The Pets in the Classroom initiative provides a coupon sheet to help procure a starter kit and live animal. Freeman retrieved the bearded dragon, which will be housed in the terrarium, and said everyone will share in its care.

“I received the set and can use the coupons as we need things,” she said. “This teaches responsibility, respect and caring for an animal. They are excited and picked names including Judge, Skullcrusher and Toothless.”

Fortunately, Judge won out as the fitting moniker, and the animal will be able to travel home with students on a rotation.