What is GOAAT?
GOAAT is an acronym for Goal Oriented Animal Assisted Teaching. Mary Jo “MJ” Hollis created this program as a way to offer a unique learning experience for students who might benefit from a non-traditional approach. She will develop specific program goals based on the learners’ needs and design educational activities that facilitate students successfully reaching those goals.
Mrs. Hollis provides a variety of educational resources and services for children of all ages, including those with learning differences, autism, and/or communication disorders. With 26+ years of working within the school environment in the field of Special Education and general education, she has extensive experience navigating the Special Education world from transitioning into a school based program at age 3 or exploring and planning post-secondary options at age 18+ years old.
Additionally, GOAAT welcomes families who wish to spend time with animals in a small farm environment. Animal Assisted Activities will be developed based on the family’s needs to enhance communication skills, positive interactions, and developing the human-animal connection.
MJ can also provide support for families who need educational resources for IEP development, advocacy for children’s learning needs at school or home, or just a support person to talk to.
It all started at Pickle Meadows Farm...
Pickle Meadows Farm was a small, family owned farm that started in Kellyville, OK in 2014. Barry and Mary Jo Hollis, along with their two children began the farm with just two goats, Puddin’ and Tilly. They began adding more animals to their 42 acre farm and raised boer goats, nubian goats, Large Black Hogs, and Dexter Cattle. There have been several flocks of chickens that roamed the property over the last seven years as well as two barn cats, and plenty of dogs.
In the fall of 2021, now that the Hollis’ are empty nesters as their children have grown and flown, they have decided to downsize their farm and relocate to the Charlottesville, VA area. Now on 6 acres with a lot of grass and trees, the dogs will enjoy exploring their new space. They will continue raising a few goats, chickens, pigs, and a hedgehog, named Princess Buttercup, that MJ will incorporate into her educational services business called GOAAT Educational Services. Stay tuned for more information regarding activities and adventures in Virginia!
