What are Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students)?

An educational initiative focused on family and community engagement, with two primary goals:

1. To offer positive male role models for students, emphasizing the importance of education through their active presence.
2. To provide additional support by increasing adult supervision, enhancing school security, and reducing bullying.

Who are Watch D.O.G.S.?

WatchDOGS are fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other father-figures who volunteer for at least one day each year as a WATCH D.O.G.S.

How can I be a Watch D.O.G.?

Becoming a WatchDOG at Boyer Elementary is a simple four-step process — do them in order:

1. Complete the PISD Background Check (Volunteer Application) HERE. Submit it at least 2 weeks before your volunteer day — you'll only be notified if there is a problem.
2. Boyer Elementary requires all "on-duty" WatchDOGS to wear Watch D.O.G.S. gear for easy identification on school property. Boyer is using Kenzie's Kreations for these shirts.
3. Download the WhatsApp app and join the Boyer Watchdogs group for updates.
4. Pick a day and sign up on the Watchdogs page. Signups open after our kickoff meeting.

When can I be a Watch D.O.G.?

WatchDOGS may sign up once a semester to allow as many dads as possible the chance to participate — signups for each semester open after our kickoff meeting. Additional days per semester may be arranged with approval.

What will I do as a Watch D.O.G.?

When you arrive on your assigned day, you'll receive a schedule with activities that may include:

• Assisting with the morning car line—opening doors and helping children to class
• Working with children in small groups or classroom settings
• Supporting teachers with various projects
• Enjoying lunch with the students
• Playing with kids at recess
• Reading with or to the children
• Helping with afternoon bus pickup or car line
• Taking your own child home with you

Do I have to stay all day?

No, signups are currently organized as half-day commitments, either 7:25–11:25 a.m. or 11:25 a.m.–3:25 p.m.

Will I be with my child all day?

For most of the day, yes.

• Your schedule will likely include visits to other classes within your child's grade level and occasionally to other grades, depending on the day and the teachers' plans.

Do you have any tips?

• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Don't forget lunch—bring one or buy from the cafeteria.
  • Bring a snack too; some classes have an early lunch!
• Chat with the kids—favorite things like colors, superheroes, and sports are great conversation starters.
• Jump in and get involved!
• Don't hesitate to ask questions.

Are there guidelines to follow?

• Wear your WatchDOGS shirt on campus for easy identification.
• Use only the staff restrooms located in the office and back workroom area.
• A refrigerator is available in the staff lounge for your lunch.
• Keep your badge visible at all times so staff know you're here to help.
• Stick to your schedule; others are counting on you at specific times.
• High fives are encouraged! However, please avoid picking up students or engaging in rough play at recess.
• In the cafeteria, feel free to chat with students, walk around to help open containers, or assist in the lunch line.
• In the classroom, clarify any questions with the teacher before working with a group.
• If you're uncomfortable with an activity or encounter behavior issues, involve the teacher right away.
• Protect student confidentiality—please do not take photos or discuss students with others.
• Stay engaged and active; your presence makes a difference for everyone!
• Avoid cell phone use in classrooms. If you need to take a call, please step outside.
• At the end of the day, check out in the office. We'd love to snap your photo for our bulletin board!