Smyrna school’s dads give of their time

Room mothers: Meet the Dad’s Club at Smyrna’s Russell Elementary School.

When Ed Richardson’s wife suggested he get more involved in their children’s elementary school, he admits he was a little hesitant.

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ALEXIS STEVENS/apstevens@ajc.com

Russell Elementary School Dad’s Club founder Ed Richardson read Thursday to Gerry Savery’s second-grade class.

Lisa Richardson had been involved with PTA at the school and thought her husband should do the same.

Ed Richardson wasn’t sure how he could help.

“No one wants to be the only dad there, so that’s why we started the club,” he said. “We’re doing manly stuff.”

Now in their second year, dads at the Cobb County school have built an outdoor classroom, hosted a bike safety rally and created elaborate sets in the media center. Last week, more than 30 dads read stories in classrooms.

At least 60 fathers are involved in the club, including some who are divorced and looking for ways to stay connected with children.

“We love the dads being here at school,” said principal Nancy DiPetrillo. “A lot of the kids don’t have dads at home. We appreciate them being here.”

Recently, the men got together and cut dozens of 3-foot-tall snowmen out of cardboard for students in the after-school program to decorate. The snowmen lined a path in the media center leading to a theatrical set, designed by Charles Swift, father of a fifth-grader at the school.

The set brings to life a holiday story about a snowman and provided the backdrop for students to come hear media specialist Marty Arrington tell the story.

David Wilkerson, a father of two at the school, said being involved is a learning experience. “It’s the best hour we can spend,” he said. “You come in and volunteer, and the kids really do like it.”

Membership is open to any dad who wants to be involved, and word of mouth has helped recruit new members. PTA president Michael Lazazzara — the only male out of five leaders — is a member.

Dameian McDonald, one of the newest members, got a club T-shirt when he showed up to read to a class. His two children urged him to join after seeing other fathers at the school.

“They said ‘that Daddy was on TV,’ ” said McDonald. The school’s televised morning announcements include Dad’s Club visits, which happen once a month.

“Moms are the rock, but the trick is getting the dads in,” DePetrillo said. “We are making our school a welcome place where they all can come.”