Judge says autistic first-grader can keep helper dog in class under Illinois law

Judge’s ruling allows autism helper dog in class

TUSCOLA, Ill. — A judge has ruled that a first-grader in central Illinois gets to keep his autism helper dog in school.

Judge Chris Freese sided Tuesday with the family of Kaleb Drew. They argued that the boy’s yellow Labrador retriever is a service animal allowed in schools under Illinois law, and helps keep him safe and calm in class.

The Villa Grove school district had argued the dog isn’t a true service animal.

The case and a separate lawsuit involving an autistic boy in southwestern Illinois are the first challenges to a state law allowing service animals in schools.

Authorities in both school districts have said that the boys’ needs must be balanced against those of other children who have allergies or fear the animals.