Evanston’s two school districts have joined with local activists to encourage fathers to take their children to school on the opening day of classes next Monday.
Evanston’s two school districts have joined with local activists to encourage fathers to take their children to school on the opening day of classes next Monday.
Organizer Jonathan Peppers of the Evanston Youth Initiative says the research shows that children whose fathers take an active role in their education earn better grades and better test scores, enjoy school more and are more likely to graduate from high school and go on to college.
The local campaign is part of a national effort called the Million Father March.
Evanston Township High School is hosting a reception for parents at 8 a.m. in the Michael Cafeteria. On the first day at ETHS only ninth graders will attend morning classes, while older students start at noon.
District 65 schools will provide welcoming stations for parents and youth initiative volunteers will be on hand to greet parents.
In addition to fathers — grandfathers and other male relatives, caregivers and family friends are invited to participate in the event. And while the focus is on involving fathers, all parents and guardians are invited to participate, Peppers says.
Parents and after school ‘education’
What percent of parents set an example for their children, by ‘studying with them ?’
I.e. some children may wonder why they have to do homework while their parents watch TV or other things.
If the parents sit down with their children and study at the same time the children won’t feel ‘alone’ in their learning, understand continuing education is needed and goes on into adulthood. Best would be to learn something new for their job improvement, then—or if not employed—something to improve general knowledge [arts and science, etc.] or necessary ‘office work.’
The other benefit is the parent is there when the child needs help.