SAN ANTONIO -- Like rock stars or super heroes, dads patrol the halls at Encino Park Elementary School.
Watch D.O.G.S.--dads of great students--are getting lots of attention "nationally."
In February, NBC anchor, Matt Lauer, profiled dads, granddads and father figures who volunteer on elementary school campuses.
The program has been around in several San Antonio school districts for years, including Northside Independent School District, Northeast Independent School District and Comal Independent School District.
"We're wandering the hallways when we're not in the class," said one of the dads in the program. "We're checking things out on the playground, we're in the lunchroom. We're everywhere."
Watch D.O.G.S. are asked to volunteer one day a year, but many dads keep coming back and realizing the program offers rewards for parents and students.
"My role has changed. I'm what they call the top dog," John Whalen proudly stated.
He’s been a volunteer for more than five years and now he is in charge of scheduling 200 Watch D.O.G.S. at Encino Park.
At a time when people are concerned about school security, their presence is comforting.
"Sometimes just having a male voice in the classroom does a lot for attention,” insisted Linda Behnke.
The first grade teacher loves having dads around to help with math or reading.
“Like a teacher situation, if you can get to one child and make a positive response, then that's gonna help out,” said Bryan Lundy.
He is a stay at home day with twins. They pleaded with him to join the group of men invading a space often ruled by women.
"Basically, they've had a monopoly for as long as I can remember," joked Whalen.
"All the moms usually do these things and these dads get to come,” cheered an excited 5th grader.
Retired teacher and grandpa, Duane Foote discovered the children have a lot to teach him.
"I'm learning how to do this now,” Foote projected his arm to describe a fist bump.
Across the country, a growing number of men are taking a more active role in schools.
"I get to see what my daughter does. I get to meet the people she's talking about,” explained Whalen.
To be fair, you don't have to wear a label to show your child you care.
The men we talked to are just proud to wear the t-shirt and serve as watchdogs who are ready to help any child in need.
