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February 16, 2024

D.C. first-graders team up with WeRateDogs to create change for adoptable dogs in their community

Be sure to check out the suggested Huddle question at the bottom of this article to discuss this important topic with your students in class, if you feel it is appropriate.

Earlier this month, the social media account WeRateDogs teamed up with other fellow dog lovers. Their partners in change were first-graders from Tyler Elementary School in Southeast Washington, D.C. The students drew pictures of adoptable dogs from their local rescue and caught the attention of the account, which featured their drawings in a post that now has over 8,000 likes on X and 71,000 likes on Instagram. 

In 2015, WeRateDogs emerged on X, formerly known as Twitter, as a platform to share dogs, their stories, and give them “ratings” based on factors such as cuteness and charm. Since then, the popular account has amassed over 9.2 million followers and has expanded its mission from just celebrating dogs to improving their lives. WeRateDogs has partnered with multiple organizations, like the 15/10 Foundation, and has successfully raised millions of dollars to support injured and sick dogs in need. 

The WeRateDogs account is a great example of how impactful social media can be when used in meaningful ways. It showcases how even younger students, who may not have social media themselves, can use their talents and resources to create positive change. Educators can use this as an example of the importance of getting their students and schools involved in causes they care about.

Young students make a difference for a D.C. dog rescue with their drawings

Recently, first-grade students from Tyler Elementary School in Southeast Washington, D.C. created drawings of dogs at the Rural Dog Rescue (RDR), to showcase adoptable dogs in their community as part of a school project. The RDR is a 100% foster-based shelter in the D.C. area and works to rescue high-risk dogs that are less likely to get adopted, such as senior pups, hounds, dogs with black fur, and sick or injured canines in high-kill shelters in rural areas. 

@weratedogs on Instagram

The students’ drawings of dogs named Toby, Rosie, Ollie, and Daisy were created to inspire community members to get involved with the local shelter, and hopefully get these dogs into their forever homes. 

Their mission wasn’t just about art; it was about making a difference in their community. And, this act of kindness didn’t go unnoticed. Little did they know, their drawings were about to capture the hearts of thousands, thanks to an unexpected ally: WeRateDogs.

WeRateDogs showcases students’ drawings on social media

WeRateDogs, a social media account that’s dedicated to sharing dogs’ stories, recently posted the students’ drawings. Gaining over 8,000 and 71,000 likes on X and Instagram, respectively, the popular account spread the students’ message to over 9 million followers. 

This isn’t the first time WeRateDogs has used its platform to create positive change around the world. The account has grown from just a positive place to appreciate cute dogs to a company dedicated to changing the lives of dogs in need. One of their biggest ventures to do this is their collaboration with the 15/10 Foundation, whose mission is “sponsoring dogs with behavioral or medical issues unlikely to ever make it out of the shelter.”

From covering the costs of an injured dog’s surgery to sponsoring the healthcare of twelve high-risk dogs for life, WeRateDogs’s efforts have changed the lives of countless dogs. WeRateDogs shows us how truly inspiring social media can be — it’s more than just a fun platform; it’s a powerful advocate for pet adoption and animal welfare, as well as a voice for those in need.

Beyond the cute pictures the first-graders created, this collaboration holds many important lessons. It emphasizes the value of providing students with opportunities to speak up on real-world issues and make meaningful contributions to their community. By involving students in projects that connect with causes they care about, educators can teach a lesson that extends far beyond the classroom. 

How educators can empower students to speak up for a cause they care about

This story of these students and their artwork shines a light on social media’s power to do good. And it’s not just older students or adults that can use their mics for good. These first-graders show that age is not a barrier when it comes to making a meaningful impact on the world. 

Educators play an important role in empowering their students to use their voices and resources for positive change, as demonstrated by the amazing impact that started from a simple school project. Here are some tips for educators to help students identify and speak up for causes they care about: 

  1. Encourage open dialogue: Create an environment where students feel comfortable expressing their thoughts and concerns about issues that matter to them. 
  2. Provide resources: Equip students with the knowledge and tools they need to research, understand, and advocate for their chosen cause, such as guidance on fact-checking and critical thinking skills. 
  3. Foster collaboration: Encourage students to work together to brainstorm ideas, organize events, and amplify their message, showing them the strength of teamwork. 

As the first-graders from Tyler Elementary School showed, there is no age limit for taking action when it comes to things you’re passionate about. In our #WinAtSocial Lesson, Following other students’ footsteps to lead your school and community to new heights, students are empowered to address challenges in society, engage adults to tackle community issues, and understand the importance of civic engagement and participation. With your help, your students can inspire positive change and create progress in their communities, no matter how young they are. 

#WinAtSocial Huddle Question
Huddle with your students
Acts of kindness and compassion have the power to uplift spirits and create positive change in the world. Reflecting on the story of Southeast DC students featured on WeRateDogs, how do you think small actions can make a difference in the lives of others? What are some ways you can contribute to your community through acts of kindness and creativity?

The Social Institute (TSI) is the leader in empowering students by understanding students. Through #WinAtSocial, our gamified, peer-to-peer learning platform, we equip students, educators, and families to navigate their social world – in the classroom and beyond, online and offline – in healthy, high-character ways. Our unique, student-respected approach empowers and equips, rather than scares and restricts. We incorporate timely topics about social media, tech use, and current events that are impacting student well-being and learning. #WinAtSocial Lessons teach life skills for the modern day, capture student voice, and provide school leaders with actionable insights. Through these insights, students play an essential role in school efforts to support their own health, happiness, and future success as we enable high-impact teaching, meaningful family conversations, and a healthy school culture.