I do agree that exposure to live animals such as rabbits can be very beneficial to children. However, there are alternatives to keeping a rabbit as a classroom pet. Local animal rescue organizations are often more than happy to bring in some of their animals and teach children about them. When I was in elementary school, our teacher set aside a day in which students could bring in their own pets to show to the class - the experience was a very positive one.

Rabbits are unique and clever animals, and can bring a lot of joy to people, but we need to keep the rabbits' needs and happiness in mind as well. I believe that often the purpose in keeping a classroom rabbit, or any pet for that matter, isn't so much educational as it is for entertainment in the classroom. Teachers should seriously consider the needs of rabbits before placing one in the classroom, and if these needs are truly considered, the teacher will find alternatives.