Jacksonville students with intellectual differences baking dog treats

Students at the North Florida School of Special Education are finding a unique way to learn legitimate job skills.

They’re making dog treats by hand, and the treats are selling in stores around Jacksonville.

The treats are also bringing some of the students closer to a career of their own.

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“We are doing dog biscuits!” said Nick Mueller, a student at the school.

Students gathered at 11 a.m. Monday to make their signature Barkin Biscuits.

Today’s flavor was peanut butter.

“It’s fun,” said student Lauren Coward. “Really fun!”

They come in three different flavors, including a gluten-free option.

Student chefs from 18 to 40 years old mix, shape, bake and package the Barkin' Biscuits.

They’re boxed, or packaged in small bags, and sold in stores around Jacksonville and online.

Gail Wickenden has overseen the program since its early stages a few years ago.

She told Action News Jax the students are getting on-the-job training, and some will go on to jobs in the community.

“It gives them something to do, either in conjunction with having a job, or just as a day program,” said Wickenden.

She shepherds the students through the process and said there’s nothing else she’d rather do.

“Best job I’ve ever had,” said Wickenden. “It’s fun! We have a good time! We laugh!”

Cox Media Group

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