In an effort to support fathers and male role models in the lives of young children, Garrison-Pilcher Elementary recently held their annual Donuts for Dads and Dudes. Almost 600 fathers and community volunteers visited the school and spent time with students doing various activities. These men shared breakfast with students, read books, toured the school, and participated in classroom learning.

Garrison-Pilcher's Parent Involvement Coordinator Misty Taylor said, “Family involvement has always been a key theme in early education and academic achievement. We want mothers and fathers to come to our school and be involved in our school activities.”

 “We also know that the male role model is a powerful factor in children’s success," added Taylor.

Along with parents of students who attend Garrison-Pilcher, men from Thomas County and Thomasville City Police Departments, EMT, and fire departments, Thomasville Utilities, and Thomas County School Board Office personnel, were on hand to engage with students and to show the value of supporting education, particularly reading.

Student Tonia Coffee, pictured with her father Brandon Coffee, stated that her favorite part about Donuts for Dads and Dudes was getting to show her daddy around the whole school after reading a book. Giggling, Tonia said “I liked drinking his coffee too”.