Hastings school helps dads get more involved

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by Lauren Conley

Story Created: Nov 14, 2012 at 5:48 PM CDT

Story Updated: Nov 14, 2012 at 6:35 PM CDT

Lincoln Elementary in Hastings is bringing watch dogs to school.
Not actual dogs though.

D.O.G.S. stands for Dad's of Great Students. It's a program to get dad's more involved in learning.

It's actually a nationwide program in over 42 states. But, Lincoln Elementary is the first school in central Nebraska to get involved.
Student teacher Jenae Meyer pitched the program to the school just this fall.

Look around the offices and classrooms of Lincoln Elementary. You'll see a lot of women.

"To get more males in our building will be a great thing," said Denise Koch.

The watch dog program will bring dad's and male role-models into everyday schooling from in the classroom and out.

"When they're here we just expect them to be positive role models, putting an emphasis on the importance of school," said Lincoln Elementary Principal Montessa Munoz.

Watch D.O.G.S don't have to be dad's. Any male role model is welcome.

The school hopes to have at least one Watch D.O.G in the building everyday. Mary Lanning Hospital is helping to make that happen.

"They're going to come and be father figures and role models to students that may not necessarily have a dad."

Teachers say Watch D.O.G.S is especially important for single parent homes.

"Just having a male, you know, to be with the kids, to be with boys, is a great opportunity," said Koch.

She hopes kids can learn social skills in school, that they couldn't have before.

"You don't realize how much we model as adults, until you see some kids that don't know how to do things or don't know socially what the protocol would be," Koch said.

Lincoln Elementary is hosting a pizza night Thursday at 7:00 pm to kick off Watch D.O.G.S.

Parents and students can learn about the program and sign up to get involved.

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