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Watchdog Dads volunteer program planned for Gravette schools, coordinator says 10 volunteers signed up
Summary
Josh Eigelberger introduced a Watchdog Dads program to the board, describing an international model that places volunteer fathers on campus to support students, reduce bullying and provide role models. Startup costs were estimated at about $500 per school and staff said background checks and launch events are planned.
The board heard a presentation introducing the Watchdog Dads volunteer program and met the district's coordinator, who said the effort aims to put volunteer fathers on campus for periodic shifts to support students and help reduce bullying.
"After reading through the program, it's an actually, it's an international program," said Josh Eigelberger, introduced to the board as the program coordinator. He told the board he already has 10 fathers committed to participating during a pilot period and described plans for a launch party and background checks to ensure campus safety.
Eigelberger told the board the program's immediate goal is to recruit one dad per school-day slot and that some materials and branding for volunteers would cost about $500 per school. He said the program organizers would provide a calendar and scheduling system; the district's staff and principals will be involved in classroom and playground coordination.
Board members and a single-parent board member who spoke in favor described the program as a valuable source of extra adult supervision and mentoring. "As a single mom, I can see how important this is," one board member said, and asked for a future report on program growth.
Administrators said grant funding might cover startup costs and that they would keep the board informed as the program expands to additional campuses and middle schools. No formal vote was required for the presentation; the board thanked Eigelberger for stepping forward to lead the pilot.
