The Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) initiative at Varner Elementary School was discussed in a recent episode of The Inside Scoop podcast, hosted by David Owen. Principal Althea Singletary and speech pathologist Tony Tesmer joined the conversation to talk about the program’s impact on the school community.
Watch D.O.G.S. is a national program that began in Texas and now has over 8,000 chapters across the United States, including several in Cobb County Schools. The initiative encourages fathers to take an active role in their children’s education by participating in daily school activities.
Tesmer described his involvement in launching the program at Varner Elementary and highlighted its positive effects throughout the school. “You’ll also hear Principal Singletary explain how this initiative has helped attendance numbers and built a stronger sense of community within the school,” said Tesmer.
Principal Singletary emphasized how bringing dads into the classroom has improved student attendance and strengthened community ties. At Varner, hundreds of fathers have volunteered to read with students, monitor hallways, assist during physical education and arts classes, and help out at lunchtime.
The podcast also noted that Cobb Schools have received national recognition for their efforts to involve fathers through Watch D.O.G.S., distinguishing themselves as a model for other districts interested in similar engagement programs.
Listeners are encouraged to tune into the full episode for more insights on starting such initiatives and learning how dads can get involved in schools across Cobb County.
