D.O.G.S. Inspire Northland Kids to Learn
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PROCTOR - Watch D.O.G.S. is a national program that’s made its way to Bay View Elementary and it calls on men to get more involved on campus.Troy Foucault can be referred to as a hero of the hallways.
He is part of Bay View Elementary's new Watch D.O.G.S. program.
"The dogs stands for Dads Of Great Students," Bay View Elementary Dean of Students Derek Parendo said.
But it's not just for dads.
Any positive male role model can volunteer their time on campus to help kids get more involved in learning and stay inspired to be on their best behavior.
"I feel that anytime that the community, teachers and parents can come together and work together in a setting it's only gonna benefit the students," said Foucault.
Foucualt starts off the day with a schedule.
"It's broken up where you're gonna be at specific times part of the day."
His day is filled with anything from patrolling the hallways, helping students complete classroom assignments and read books to tackling the challenges of the cafeteria.
"Being in the lunchroom as you can see it's an eye opening experience,” said Foucault. "It's great though."
Other than being a positive role model, a Watch D.O.G.S. presence can enhance school security and reduce the likelihood of bullying.
"If they see some groups of kids starting to form or somebody's picking on somebody a little bit or just understanding where kids are coming from so they can talk to their own kids about what goes on," said Parendo.
Students and teachers are not the only ones benefitting from the program, Watch D.O.G.S. say they're gaining a lot from the experience too.
"There's a lot that the community can come in and contribute to the schools and just not letting the schools try to raise these kids on their own," said Foucault.
While Foucault is not able to volunteer everyday, in due time he hopes to be a familiar face on campus.
"I definitely think I'm going to continue with this," he said.
If you would like to volunteer with Watch D.O.G.S. you can contact Bay View Elementary.
