ST. LUCIE COUNTY, FL – St. Lucie Public Schools (SLPS) invites fathers and male caregivers to come back to school! On Wednesday, September 26, a movement across the state of Florida will be put into motion whereby fathers and male caregivers are encouraged to bring their child to school, sign a pledge of involvement, and demonstrate the value of being involved in their child’s education — Dads Take Your Child to School Day.
Dr. Kevin Perry leads the effort for SLPS, and he explained, “The movement in SLPS has grown significantly over the last three years, and we look forward to setting new participation milestones this year.” A father who actively participates in the educational and social developmental life of a child is invaluable and irreplaceable. Statistics from the National Fatherhood Initiative show when fathers and men are regularly and substantially involved in the education and social development of children, those children have higher standardized test scores, higher grade point averages, higher attendance rates and higher graduation rates. Those children also have lower rates of suspension, expulsion and arrest. As one goes up, the other goes down. When you accentuate and improve the positive, you decrease or eliminate the negative.
While there is no magic solution to solve the concerns faced by educators today, getting fathers highly engaged is a huge step in the right direction. Dads, Take Your Child to School Day is an opportunity for all men to show their commitment to the educational lives of children. It also marks the beginning of a year-long commitment by men. For this reason, the movement is an influential and celebrated event.
Last year, approximately 3,000 fathers and male caregivers participated in activities in SLPS. This special event in honor of dads and their support of the educational process is implemented as a MOVEMENT, not just a MOMENT! Schools will continue to have a series of father centered activities throughout the school year.
About St. Lucie Public Schools
St. Lucie Public Schools (SLPS) proudly serves students as the highest-ranking District on the Treasure Coast and fifth in Florida with a graduation rate of 90.1 percent. As a B rated District, there are no failing schools, and SLPS is ranked among the top one-third of Florida’s districts for student achievement. The District also has the distinction of being recognized as one of St. Lucie County’s Best Places to Work. The mission of SLPS is to ensure all students graduate from safe and caring schools equipped with the knowledge, skills and desire to succeed. For more information, visit http://www.stlucieschools.org.