Testimonials
These represent a small percentage of the feedback we have received for this program over the years.
“We had over 110 dads at the very first (WATCH D.O.G.S.) kick-off. And that’s in a school that has 240 kids.”
Principal Amy Hercules
Countryside Elementary
Olathe, KS
“You know your (WATCH D.O.G.S.) model is so simple that it can be put in place in rural America, inner-city America, any place, any kind of school.”
Margaret Spellings
US Department of Education
“I think that this program has helped dads feel that they are not only welcome at school but that they are needed at school.”
‘Top Dog’ Dad John Ramirez
Encino Park Elementary
San Antonio, TX
“I think there is a great need to get dads back into the educational process. I can’t be everywhere. I have the entire district to cover. I’ve got five buildings to take care of. Having that (WATCH D.O.G.S.) presence, just having some extra eyes and ears… it might deter someone from taking any type of action.”
Police Officer Mark Hall
SRO for Logan-Rogersville
Upper Elementary and Primary Schools
Rogersville, MO
“I think that dads want to get involved and they are looking for an avenue to do it and they need the (WATCH D.O.G.S.) structure and the format… dads need to know what’s going to happen next.”
Principal Jackie Klamenus
Bellows Spring Elementary
Ellicott City, MD
“As we work to drive down drop-out rates and increase graduation and college completion rates, fathers have an important role to play. Children are always watching. Engaged fathers can strengthen our schools, mentor and tutor students and demonstrate through their actions how much they value their children’s education.”
Arne Duncan
U.S. Secretary of Education White House Press Release, September 23, 2009
“When you get a few dads together and they see the positive impact this program provides, the energy is addicting and suddenly you have more dads than you have days for them to have the opportunity to be a Big Dog!”
PTA Co-President Megan Paul
Discovery Primary/Endeavour Intermediate
Milton, WA
“Most of the time when I see a dad it’s because there’s a problem. And we want (WATCH D.O.G.S.) dads to be able to come to school when there’s not a problem, when it’s a positive solution.”
Principal Chris Torgesen
American Falls Intermediate School
American Falls, ID
“It’s the best way for dads to deliver the message: Your education is important enough for me to take the time from work to help.”
‘Top Dog’ Dad Bill Funk
Fern Elementary School
Round Rock, TX
“I have never before seen such a warm response from a child just because they see a man coming down the hall wearing a WATCH D.O.G.S. t-shirt. It is truly amazing to watch the smile on his or her face… Are you looking for a program to increase male involvement in your schools? If so, WATCH D.O.G.S. is the program for you!”
Karen Dixon
PA State PTA Board of Managers
Scotland Elementary
Scotland, PA
“The positive male role models that participate in the daily accomplishments of the students will be remembered by the students… Our volunteer hours have increased, but more importantly, the excitement on the faces of our students when they see a DOG come into their classroom or enter the cafeteria is priceless! At CLE the WATCH D.O.G.S. program involves parents, students, and teachers, and is treasured by all! We love WATCH D.O.G.S.!!!!”
Teacher Missi Campbell
Crystal Lake Elementary
Stuart, FL