Compassion Classroom is the Virginia Beach SPCA’s character education program for second- and fourth-grade students, designed to help children explore values such as kindness, respect, responsibility, and compassion.

Rooted in the VBSPCA’s mission to create a more humane and responsible community, the program encourages students to think about the needs and feelings of others—both people and animals—and consider how their choices can make a positive difference.

For more than 20 years, the Virginia Beach SPCA has proudly brought this award-winning program to Virginia Beach City Public Schools. Through age-appropriate lessons, conversation, and hands-on learning, Compassion Classroom helps students connect everyday acts of kindness with the larger idea of caring for their community.

How the Program Works

Participating classes receive four 30–45 minute sessions scheduled between October and April. Lessons are led by a VBSPCA Humane Educator or trained volunteer and are designed to be engaging, interactive, and appropriate for each grade level.

During the final session, students have the opportunity to meet one of our animal ambassadors. Depending on availability and suitability, these may include dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, or other animals approved for classroom visits.

All VBSPCA educators and volunteers are trained and have completed criminal background checks. Animals participating in the program are healthy, appropriately vaccinated, and evaluated for safe classroom interaction.

School Participation

A signed parent or guardian waiver is required for each participating student before the first lesson. Because students may interact closely with animals, teachers are also asked to let us know in advance about allergies, accessibility needs, or other considerations that may help us provide a safe and comfortable experience for everyone.

Participating teachers and students are required to complete brief pre- and post-program assessments. This information helps us measure the impact of Compassion Classroom and provides outcomes required by the grants that allow the VBSPCA to offer the program at no cost to schools.

Putting Compassion Into Action

Schools are not required to make a donation or hold a fundraiser to participate. However, some classrooms choose to extend what they have learned by supporting the animals of the VBSPCA through activities such as supply drives, spirit days, penny wars, or other student-led projects.

These activities can give students an opportunity to put compassion into practice while making a meaningful contribution to animals in their community.

Bring Compassion Classroom to Your School

Schools interested in participating can complete the interest form below. Our Humane Education team will follow up with additional information about availability and scheduling.