Students at Franklin Elementary School in Massillon couldn’t help but smile as they arrived at school on Thursday.
Many were accompanied by their father or a father figure. They also ate a cookie with their father before going to their classroom.
Fathers and role models were invited to walk or drive their children to school on the annual Fathers Walk Their Children to School Day.
The initiative is sponsored by Stark County Job & Family Services and the Stark County Fatherhood Coalition and aims to encourage fathers and others to be actively involved in their children’s lives and serve as positive role models. By walking or driving their children to school, they show them that they care and support their education.
Elementary schools in the Massillon City, Canton City, Alliance City and Plain Local school districts participated in the event. Agency representatives and school officials greeted the children and handed out treats. Some schools hosted fun activities for the students and fathers.
Jerry Coleman, executive director of Stark County Jobs & Family Services, said the march not only helps children show they are supported, but also strengthens the bond between child and father.
“Our goal is to encourage fathers to become more involved,” said Ann Durkin, deputy director of the Division of Child Support. “We are impressed each year by the number of families who participate in this event.”
