Rainsboro program can help build stronger relationships

Rainsboro Elementary this year is inviting dads and other “dudes” in a child’s life to join their students once a month at the school for breakfast and activities.

It’s called Dads, Dudes, and Donuts, and it’s part of a larger, national program called All-Pro Dad. It’s a concept that’s meant to further engage dads, and other men in a child’s life, in the life of their student(s).

Rainsboro Principal Maggie Lyons said she was approached by the uncle of one of her students who had previously participated in the All-Pro Dad program in another school district when his son was younger. That’s what got things started with Rainsboro’s program, which is a registered chapter of All-Pro Dad.

The first morning meeting of the Dads, Dudes, and Donuts was held in October this school year, and the intended meetings are to be the third Monday of each month. Information on the monthly event will be sent home with students each month and posted ahead of time on the school’s Facebook page.

Lyons said each meeting will have a theme. For the inaugural meeting in October, the theme was creativity, so the dads and dudes and their students made artwork. November’s theme is community service, where students and their guests will do small jobs around the school together.

“Our Dads, Dudes, and Donuts morning meetings provide an opportunity for students to spend time with a male in their life interacting in the school setting,” Lyons said. “Here they will build stronger relationships through time, service, and reflection on supporting students’ self-worth.

“We are very excited about our large turnout last month and look forward to seeing this program grow. Our Rainsboro students are blessed to be a part of this national chapter.”

If you would like to keep up with what is happening at Rainsboro Elementary, go to the school’s Facebook page.