Maine School Official Raises Religious Objections to Classroom Dogs

• A teacher at Ocean Avenue Elementary School requested to foster puppies in her classroom.
• Dr. Abdullahi Ahmed, Portland Public Schools' assistant superintendent, raised concerns about dogs in classrooms.
• The concerns stem from Islamic religious beliefs about animals.
• The district is currently weighing changes to its classroom pet policy.
• The debate began after a teacher sought permission to foster puppies for educational purposes.