An initiative at Chapin Elementary School (CES) is making waves by bringing male role models to the forefront of students’ daily lives. “Dads at Doors” invites fathers, grandfathers, uncles, older brothers, and other male community members to volunteer during morning drop-off.
The aim of the initiative is twofold: to encourage male involvement in the school environment and to demonstrate the value of strong community relationships. Often, school settings predominantly feature female participation, but “Dads at Doors” seeks to change that by highlighting the importance of male presence.
On specific mornings, volunteers greet students with smiles, open car doors, and offer encouraging words as students arrive. Through their presence, these men model positive behavior, such as using polite language and good manners by setting a tone of respect and kindness for the day.
Through the coordination of CES’s Parent Teacher Organization (PTO), “Dads at Doors” allows the school to show students that they are surrounded by strong, caring men who want to invest in their futures. It’s about building relationships and fostering a sense of security and community.
The initiative is open to all male role models—not just dads—to ensure every student has the opportunity to see the impact of supportive men in their lives.
Through “Dads at Doors,” CES is building a foundation of trust and connection, proving that a simple act of showing up can make a world of difference.
