A new program kicked off at Lamar Elementary this week with great success. WATCHD.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) is a national father involvement initiative that encourages fathers, grandfathers, step-fathers, uncles, and other father figures to volunteer at least one day a year in a variety of school activities as assigned by the school principal.

Lamar Elementary welcomed four male figures on campus this week. Grandfather George Shields and fathers Greg Coats, Mark Shepherd and Justin Martinez monitored the lunch room, checked the school for unlocked doors and mentored students during their time on campus.

LamarElementary Principal, Jason Tharp, stated, “I am grateful that Michael Phillips, our current PTA president, brought this program to my attention and got it off the ground and running. I am thankful for the fathers and grandfathers that have already signed up to be a Watch D.O.G. There are only positive things that can happen from working together with the dedicated father figures at Lamar Elementary. We hope to continue to grow this program as word spreads about its effectiveness.”

The Watch D.O.G.program, designed to engage men, inspire children, reduce bullying and enhance the educational environment on school campuses, currently has more than 3,156 active programs in 46 states.

Michael Phillips, organizer of the Lamar Elementary project, stated, “With the implementation of the Watch D.O.G.S program, we are showing the entire student body that their education is important, and that the men in this community value what is going on inside the school walls. We are there to help keep the school safe and have a fun time interacting with the kids. I can’t think of too many things that make me feel better than having twenty kids walking down the hallway giving high fives or an occasional hug. It’s pretty special for everyone involved.”

Those interested in becoming Watch D.O.G.S. are encouraged to contact Kelli Tharp, Director of Community Service, at 903.457.2521 or tharpkl@greenvilleisd.com