Flint, MI – March 18, 2025 - Flint Community Schools is proud to welcome Bubbles the Blind Beagle, an inspiring therapy and advocacy dog, to Freeman Elementary on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 12:30 PM for a special event promoting inclusion, kindness, and accessibility for individuals with disabilities. During the visit, Bubbles and his team will present a young visually impaired scholar, AJ Haselhuhn, a 4th grader, with Meta Glasses, providing him with enhanced accessibility and independence.
"At Flint Community Schools, we are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every scholar is valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Bubbles the Blind Beagle’s story is a powerful testament to resilience, kindness, and advocacy. We are honored to host this event at Freeman Elementary and provide a scholar with the tools they need to navigate the world with greater independence," said Superintendent Kevelin Jones, Flint Community Schools.
Bubbles the Blind Beagle is more than just a beloved companion—he is a symbol of resilience and advocacy. Born on March 12, 2021, Bubbles was initially bred as a sport-hunting dog. When his owner discovered his impaired vision, instead of euthanizing him, they chose to give him a second chance. That decision led him to Stacie Elliott, a passionate beagle rescuer, who welcomed him into her home. There, he met his guide dog and best friend, Nugget, whose natural empathy and companionship became Bubbles’ greatest source of support.
Bubbles’ journey quickly gained attention, but not all was positive. Facing online criticism due to his disability, his story evolved into a powerful movement for disability awareness and anti-bullying advocacy. In 2022, the Bubbles the Blind Beagle Foundation, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, expanded its mission to rescue and rehabilitate needy beagles, particularly those abandoned due to disabilities, injuries, or age.
Bubbles and his team launched the "Bubbles of Kindness" campaign to support this mission. They travel to schools to teach children about bullying prevention, inclusion, and embracing differences. In return, participating schools hold supply drives or make donations, benefiting the foundation’s rescue efforts and Genesee County Animal Control. The campaign has provided four large loads of supplies to support local animals in need.
Tiffany M. Pritchett, Ed. S., Principal of Freeman Elementary School, shared, "At Freeman Elementary, we celebrate diversity, encourage empathy, and teach our scholars the importance of inclusion. Having Bubbles the Blind Beagle visit our school is an exciting moment and a meaningful opportunity to reinforce the values of compassion and perseverance. We are proud to be part of this initiative and witness its impact on our students."
Flint Community Schools is excited to host Bubbles the Beagle at Freeman Elementary, reinforcing the district’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, supportive, and inspiring learning environment for all scholars. This event is a valuable opportunity to celebrate diversity, promote kindness, and empower students through real-life examples of overcoming adversity.
Press Release link: https://5il.co/3atid