CAMPBELL, Ohio - He's only been in class for a few weeks, but Foster is certainly making the grade.  The two year-old black lab retriever mix is Campbell Elementary School's new canine companion, who spends his days in special education teacher Robert Fick's classroom.

"Foster is able to do  lot of things in our classroom.  First and foremost, he is a great friend," said teacher Robert Foster.  "He is able to make connections with students that maybe take me a year or two to get to that point.  He was able to do it in days, weeks make those connections that an animal is able to do."

Certified through the Canine Companions for Independence, Foster works as a facility dog.  He knows 40 different commands, designed to motivate people with special needs.    Mr. Fick says Foster has been a great motivator to his students.  For Mr. Fick's students who are non-verbal, Foster provides a sense of calm through touch.

"They think it is just strictly fun and games, but they are actually meeting their needs and performing and growing," said Mr. Fick.  "I had done a lot of research and of course, when you are learning it in a book or reading it online, it is one thing, but to actually see the immediate impact, I was so excited to get him.  He's done a wonderful job.  It's been amazing."

Mr. Fick, who takes Foster home each night and cares for him, keeps Foster in his classroom.  Although, he hopes to start taking his canine to other classrooms so more students can enjoy his companionship.