There’s a school in North Jersey that’s putting the focus on father-kid time to strengthen engagement in education as well as at home.
Nearly 100 fathers and father figures gathered at Fairmount Heights Middle School (HMS) in Newark, a part of Great Oaks Legacy Charter School, for the annual Donuts With Dad event, which started out with just 35 dads three years ago.
HMS School Director Victoria Guest developed the idea with a colleague to get dads more involved in their children’s education, and to feel welcome inside the school building.
“By hosting events that foster stronger relationships between fathers and their children, we’re not just building connections at home, but laying the foundation for academic success and future growth. These are the moments that help shape the future of our students,” says Jared Taillefer, executive director of Great Oaks Legacy Charter School.
Since the event began, Guest says she has seen an increase in father participation across other school events, with more attending Back to School Night and the annual Gratitude Lunch.
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