Watch D.O.G.S.

Join Us, Get Trained, Guard the Halls

What is Watch D.O.G.S.?

WATCH D.O.G.S. stands for Dads of Great Students—a nationally recognized program that brings fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and other male role models into schools for at least one impactful day each year. This initiative helps strengthen student support, enhances school safety, and fosters community engagement.

  • Becoming a PTO member is your first step—not just to support the school, but also to become eligible for the Watch D.O.G.S. program.

  • Safety is our top priority. All Watch D.O.G.S. volunteers must:

    • Complete the PTO Volunteer Training

    • Pass a background check (please allow up to 5 business days for processing)

    • Sign both the ILTexas Volunteer Agreement and the Watch D.O.G.S. Volunteer Agreement

    These steps ensure all volunteers are prepared, approved, and aligned with our campus expectations.

  • Once cleared, you can sign up for a Watch D.O.G.S. day. Your day might include:

    • Greeting students at drop-off or bus lines

    • Assisting in classrooms and during announcements

    • Supervising lunch or recess

    • Serving as an extra set of eyes and encouragement throughout the school

  • Be present, approachable, and engaged—your enthusiasm makes all the difference.

How It Works

Michael Phillips

“Volunteering as a WATCH D.O.G.S. dad at ILTexas has been incredibly rewarding. Being present at school, I get to support my kids, their classmates, and staff. The students love seeing dads involved, and it strengthens our community. I highly recommend all fathers join, your presence truly makes a difference!”

Family Membership
$20.88
One time

Bundle up to 4 members.

Option One

Single Guardian Membership
$10.59
One time

One adult membership.

Option two

What’s Included: Watch D.O.G.S. Membership Benefits

Becoming a Watch D.O.G.S. volunteer (via PTO membership) connects you not only to our school community but also to a rewarding experience mentoring and patrolling alongside other role models.

    • Priority for Scheduling Watch D.O.G.S. Days
      Volunteers get early access to sign up for Watch D.O.G.S. opportunities throughout the school year.

    • Exclusive Access to Watch D.O.G.S. Events
      Invitations to kickoff meetings, orientation sessions, and debrief gatherings just for Watch D.O.G.S. participants.

    • Voting Rights at PTO Meetings
      Help shape Watch D.O.G.S. procedures, support funding priorities, and influence PTO initiatives.

    • PTO Member Newsletters
      Regular updates featuring sign-up reminders, training details, feature stories from Watch D.O.G.S. days, and volunteer highlights.

    • Priority Alerts
      Be among the first informed about new Watch D.O.G.S. opportunities, training dates, or campaign initiatives.

    • Join a Network of Watch D.O.G.S. Role Models
      Connect with other fathers, grandfathers, uncles, and male role models united by a passion for supporting students physically and emotionally.

    • Make a Direct Impact in Your Child's School Life
      Every Watch D.O.G.S. volunteer helps strengthen school safety, visibility, and provides an uplifting presence for students and staff.

Watch D.O.G.S. Kick-Off Event:

Yard Games!

September 4 5:30PM -7PM

ILTexas College Station K-8 GYM

Bring your A-game and join us for an afternoon of yard games, fun, and connection as we kick off another year of Watch D.O.G.S.! Whether you're a returning volunteer or new to the program, this is a great chance to learn more, ask questions, and meet other amazing father figures making a difference on campus.

Come ready to play, connect, and step up for our Eagles!

Frequently Asked Questions – Watch D.O.G.S.

  • Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) is a nationally recognized program that invites dads, grandfathers, uncles, and other father figures to volunteer at least one day a year at their child’s school. Volunteers help enhance campus safety, serve as positive role models, and support school staff in a variety of ways.

  • Not at all! We welcome any positive male role model—uncles, grandparents, adult brothers, stepfathers, or mentors. The only requirement is that you're committed to supporting our students in a positive, respectful, and encouraging way.

  • Volunteers are given a flexible schedule that may include:

    • Greeting students at arrival

    • Patrolling hallways

    • Monitoring recess or lunch

    • Helping in classrooms or specials

    • Assisting during dismissal
      Your presence helps deter bullying, boosts student morale, and supports our amazing staff.

  • Yes. All Watch D.O.G.S. must be active PTO members. Your membership supports training and background checks, and helps fund resources for your volunteer day.

  • Follow these steps:

    1. Join the PTO at iltexascsk8pto.org/joinpto

    2. Complete the Volunteer Training on the PTO Member Hub

    3. Submit your Background Check (may take up to 5 business days)

    4. Sign both the ILTexas Volunteer Agreement and the Watch D.O.G.S. Agreement

    5. Sign up for your Watch D.O.G.S. day!

  • Most Watch D.O.G.S. commit to one day per year, but we welcome you to serve more often if your schedule allows! Just sign up for additional dates after your first shift.

  • While we do our best to include time in your child’s classroom, our priority is serving the whole school community. Your schedule will be a mix of classroom support, hallway presence, and general assistance. We’ll always try to make the day meaningful for you and your child.

  • Yes! You’ll receive a Watch D.O.G.S. badge or shirt to wear on your volunteer day. If you already own a Watch D.O.G.S. shirt from a previous year, feel free to wear it. Business casual or school-appropriate dress is encouraged.

  • Please email Paul Fillippa at watchdogs@iltexascsk8pto.org or reach out through our Contact Us page. We’re happy to help!