Watch D.O.G.S. Program Brings Mentorship and Safety to School

The volunteer-based initiative aims to increase male role models and security at a California elementary school.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 9:03pm

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A program called Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) is being implemented at an elementary school in Lincoln, California to provide mentorship and enhance safety on campus. The initiative recruits fathers, grandfathers, and other father figures to volunteer at the school, with the goal of increasing the presence of positive male role models and improving overall security.

Why it matters

The Watch D.O.G.S. program is designed to address two key issues facing many schools - the lack of male involvement and the need for improved campus safety. By encouraging fathers and father figures to actively participate in the school community, the program aims to provide students, especially young boys, with positive role models and mentors. Additionally, the increased adult supervision and security presence can help create a safer environment for students.

The details

Through the Watch D.O.G.S. program, volunteers commit to spending at least one day per school year assisting with various tasks, such as monitoring hallways, helping in classrooms, and participating in school activities. The program has been implemented in thousands of schools across the United States, with the Lincoln, California elementary school being the latest to adopt it.

  • The Watch D.O.G.S. program was first launched nationally in 1998.
  • The Lincoln, California elementary school began implementing the program in the current 2026-2027 school year.

The players

Watch D.O.G.S.

A national program that recruits fathers, grandfathers, and other father figures to volunteer at schools and serve as positive role models and security presences.

Lincoln, California elementary school

The specific school that has recently implemented the Watch D.O.G.S. program to enhance mentorship and safety on its campus.

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What they’re saying

“Having more male role models on campus is so important for our students, especially the young boys who may not have that positive influence at home.”

— Principal Sarah Johnson, Principal

“I'm excited to be a part of this program and to make a difference in the lives of the kids at our school.”

— Volunteer Dad Michael Thompson

What’s next

The school plans to continue recruiting more volunteer dads and father figures to participate in the Watch D.O.G.S. program throughout the school year.

The takeaway

The Watch D.O.G.S. program is a valuable initiative that can help address the need for positive male role models and enhanced security in schools, ultimately creating a more supportive and safer environment for students.