School implements Watch DOGS program

East Poinsett County Elementary has decided to take action in making their schools a better place for children. The school had decided to invest their time into the Watch DOGS (Dads Of Great Students). Program. An initiative of the National Center for Fathering, Watch DOGS involves fathers and father figures to help create a more safe and secure learning environment at the school.

Some of the tasks that the Watch dads take on is watching the children on the playground, cafeteria duty, hall patrol, monitoring classrooms for the teachers or simply reading and doing flashcards with the children.

"Any dad can join this program and we encourage them to," said Jacinda Prince, principal of the Tyronza campus of EPC Elementary School.

The program not only encourages just dads to join, it applies to grandfathers, step-fathers, uncles or any father figures. Prince agrees that it's a great approach to school safety and getting parents involved on the campus.

Watch DOGS volunteer Jim Duffel reads to his grandson Peyton Kelly. (Tribune photo / Marissa Holiman)

"It's a great way to get involved with the kids," said Prince.

The program had its official kick-off back in January.

"We wanted to start it out on a trial run from January until the end of the school year," said Prince.

They have had a few fathers who have gladly volunteered for the job, but Jim Duffel, pastor of Lepanto First Baptist Church, is one of the programs biggest volunteers.

"Jim has been helpful to this program and is definitely our 'top dog' right now," said Prince.

As of right now, 79% of principals surveyed agree that the Watch DOGS program has made a significant contribution to the safety of their schools. Prince agrees with this survey as well.

"We just want to promote a safer environment for the kids and this program is a great way to do that," said Prince.

Those would like to volunteer for a day the school should contact Principal Prince at 475-2632 to sign up for the program.