Dixson and Grady Dads Turn Out for "Dads Take Your Child to School Day"

The line outside the Carl L. Dixson School in the Elmsford Union Free School District was long Sept. 19 as fathers and their sons and daughters waited their turn to celebrate “Dads Take Your Child to School Day” by posing with their dads and signing a special certificate that read: “Thank You for Taking Me to School Today.”

Dixson teachers volunteered before school, handing out the certificates for the children to sign and then directing them toward special areas of the lower level room at the school where their photographs were taken.

In the Alice E. Grady Elementary School cafeteria, Principal Douglas Doller hosted a continental-style breakfast for over 170 dads.

“It was an amazing morning,” said Mr. Doller, referring to the appreciation that the dads expressed toward the teachers, PTSA members and others who volunteered to make the event a really special one.

School districts throughout the county took part in the statewide initiative, which encourages fathers and significant male caregivers to be positive role models in their children’s lives.

Westchester County Executive Rob Astorino’s ongoing #DadsBeThere fatherhood initiative was an integral part of the awareness campaign.

Dixson Principal Jeffrey Olender said he was happy to see so many dads turn out for the special event.

“Elmsford is a special place where the phrase, 'It takes a village…' is taken to heart,” Mr. Olender remarked. “Today our dads got the recognition for standing tall and doing their part in raising our children. Thanks to all of them and the other father figures for coming out, as well as all of those who participated in making the event so special.”