Dads on Duty – Keeping the Peace; Setting the Example!
Students at Southwood High in Shreveport, Louisiana were not solving their differences peacefully. The police were being called to the school each day. Some children were being arrested. Things kept getting worse. As a dad of an 11th grader Michael La’Fitte did not like what he was seeing. He knew he had to take action. So he spoke with some other involved dads. They met with High School Principal Kim Pendleton and she welcomed their help. And that’s what started Dads on Duty!
Dads on Duty is now made up of 40 fathers who spend time at the school to help keep watch and create a peaceful environment. They talk to kids. They make bad dad jokes. They help solve problems.
They have been on campus for over two months and they have changed the atmosphere of the entire school. For nearly the entire time they have been at Southwood Hig, there has been no violence. Kids are happier. Teachers are happier. Police are happier. The community is happier.
And the rest of the country now wants to learn from their experience and wisdom. In fact, the Dads on Duty is now responding to inquiries from over 100 schools and colleges from across the US who are interested in running their program at the local school. Schools in Kansas, Nevada, and South Carolina have already started similar programs.
Dads on Duty is a great example of the power of responsibility, creativity, and taking action. Check out this inspiring video, see the dads in action, and think about something you could do to help improve the culture in your own school.
Additional Resources:
- Find other InspireMyKids stories about other inspiring schools
- Check out our inspiring quotes for kids about responsibility, taking action and serving others
Topics for Discussion:
- What character traits do Dads on Duty demonstrate?
- Can you think of one thing you could do to help improve the atmosphere in your school?
- Who is the most inspiring parent you know? Why?
Take Action:
- What do kids in your school need? How could you help make this happen?
- Do you think your school could benefit from Dads on Duty? Contact them on Facebook or at: dadsondutyusa@gmail.com
- Learn how you can contribute to Dads on Duty GoFundMe campaign, here
