Being a Watch Dog Dad is a great way to become involved in your child’s educational journey. This program allows you to volunteer not only in your child’s classroom but in other classrooms as well. Teachers can always use the extra resources when available. This program also allows us parents to be role models in front of our children so they can see how important it is for us to have positive relationships within the school such as supporting the educational mission of their teachers and administrators.
I became a Watch Dog Dad last year, it was the first year back after COVID, and have enjoyed it so much that I continue to volunteer my time for this wonderful program. My responsibilities as a Watch Dog Dad range from assisting with the car loop, being a presence in the hallways, assisting teachers in and out of the classroom, cafeteria duty, and so much more.
There are so many things I enjoy about being a Watch Dog Dad. I enjoy working with the children in small group reading or math. Pulling kids one-on-one to provide individual guided instruction based on their needs and the teacher's needs. Helping them in the cafeteria. I thoroughly enjoy playing with the kids at recess. Most importantly, I love spending time with my own son during times I normally wouldn’t be able to because of work and life. To see him engage with his friends and teachers is really special to watch.
Being a Watch Dog Dad is not only for the dads, it’s also for those who serve both the mom and dad roles at home. As far as I know, all are welcome to participate in this program. If you have thought about serving as a Watch Dog Dad but haven’t done so just yet, I highly encourage you to give it a try. You do not have to dedicate a whole day to this program, whatever you are able to provide is just the right amount of time to give. No time is too little to invest in your child, their friends, and their teachers/administrators.
Please feel free to reach out (540-946-4650) to John Helbert, Assistant Principal to learn more.