After a successful kickoff last year, Becker Primary School continues to grow their Watch D.O.G.S. program, holding one “Pizza with Dad” and three “Donuts with Dad” informational sessions to explain the program and how dads can become involved.
Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) are dads, grandpas, uncles and other father figures who volunteer at least one day at the school each year. They work alongside teachers in the classroom, eat lunch with the students, play at recess, patrol school entrances and hallways and assist with traffic flow and other activities where they engage with not only their own child, but other students as well.
Watch D.O.G.S. is a family and community engagement initiative. The goal of this national program is to provide positive male role models for all students, demonstrating by their presence that education is important, and providing extra sets of eyes and ears to enhance school security and reduce bullying.
“Watch D.O.G.S. help get dads involved in their child’s life,” said Principal Dale Christensen. “Our goal is to have at least one father figure in the school every day. Last year over 60 dads volunteered.”
During the informational sessions Christensen explained the many impacts the program has. Students see positive role models, the school has more adults to help out and interact with the students, and dads become the ‘big man on campus.’
“The kids will be excited to see you and give you high-fives,” said Christensen.
Volunteers from last year shared how much they had gotten out of being part of Watch D.O.G.S.
“The day you come in and spend with your kid will probably be one of their favorite days,” said Todd Schuster, who is also a Sherburne Co. deputy and the district’s liaison officer. “You’re going to make a big imprint. A lot of children don’t have a positive male figure in their life. You here are all positive influences but unfortunately not everyone has that.”
“Being a Watch D.O.G.S. is one of the more memorable moments in my life,” said Donnie Hanson, who also serves in the military. “All these kids are so happy just to see you. The smiles you get are absolutely awesome. You know you’ve made an impact.”
Studies have shown that kids who have a positive male figure in their life develop more socially, physically and academically.
To volunteer for the program, dads must complete a background check and purchase a t-shirt that identifies them as a Watch D.O.G.S. so students know who they are and that they’re a safe person.
Liberty Paper, Inc. recently donated $3,000 in support of the Watch D.O.G.S. program, which helped cover the expenses for last week’s events held for dads and students.
Those interested in becoming part of the Watch D.O.G.S. program can call the school office at 763-261-6330 or visit the school’s website at becker.k12.mn.us/schools-1/primary-school/watch-d-o-g-s.
