Dads making an impact

Richardson said WatchD.O.G.S. volunteers perform a variety of tasks during their volunteer day including monitoring the school entrance, assisting with unloading and loading of buses and cars.

There is a need for more of a male presence and mentorship at Horizon Elementary School, and a group of fathers have just the right idea.

The school has implemented a program called WatchD.O.G.S, which stands for Dads of Great Students. The dads at Horizon plan to kick off the program with “Donuts for Dads,” a celebration that invites dad’s to participate in the program.

“This is our first year with this program and we plan to provide positive male role models, positive mentorship and to increase the father involvement here at Horizon,” said school Principal Rodney Richardson. “We invite fathers, grandfathers, uncles or other father figures to volunteer at least one day all day at their child’s/student’s school during the school year.”

The program is overseen by a “Top Dog” volunteer who partners with the school administrator to coordinate scheduling, identify opportunities and provide assistance at the school.

Richardson said WatchD.O.G.S. volunteers perform a variety of tasks during their volunteer day including monitoring the school entrance, assisting with unloading and loading of buses and cars.

“They also monitor the lunch room and lend a helping hand to teachers in the classroom by working with small groups of students on homework, flashcards and spelling,” added Richardson.

Dads will have the chance to sign up for the program at the kick-off celebration “Donuts with Dad” this Friday, Jan. 13 from 7:15-8:15 a.m. at Horizon.

There will also be another opportunity to sign up in the school’s office anytime throughout the school year.

For more information, contact the school’s office at (256) 464-3616.