Beach Street welcomed an unusual new “student” recently, a bearded dragon named Mushu. The lucky lizard is serving as the school’s library helper while teaching students about reptiles.

“I had found a website called that provides teachers with grants to purchase classroom pets,” said Lisa Cosgrove, Beach Street’s library media specialist. “I thought it would be a great way to boost spirits and morale since COVID and give the students something to be excited about. I applied for the Pets in the Classroom grant and they sent me a check to purchase a pet. With the help of the student council, we decided on a bearded dragon. We held a contest to name her and the students chose Mushu. She is busy giving book recommendations, creating spine poems and making everyone smile. The students love coming in to see her and watching her grow and eat her vegetables. She’s an amazing addition to the library.”