Donuts With Dad: Newark Fathers Bond With Kids At School Event

Kids & Family

Donuts With Dad: Newark Fathers Bond With Kids At School Event "These are the moments that help shape the future of our students."

NEWARK, NJ — The following news release comes courtesy of Great Oaks Legacy Charter School. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.

As the early morning light filtered through the windows of Great Oaks Legacy Charter School's Fairmount Heights Middle School, Donald Jones sat across from his daughter Trinity, a sixth grader, sharing donuts and laughter. It was their first time attending the school's Donuts With Dad event, but for Jones, the significance of the moment went beyond breakfast.

"This is my first time at the event, and it means everything to me," Jones said, smiling at his daughter. "It was a great time to bond with my baby and be with other dads. This has a positive impact on the children and helps encourage fathers to be part of their children's education."

Nearly 100 fathers and father figures gathered at Fairmount Heights Middle School for the third annual Donuts With Dad event, organized to foster stronger parent engagement, particularly among male figures in students' lives. The event has grown significantly since its inception, when just 35 fathers attended.

The initiative was the brainchild of HMS School Director Victoria Guest, who developed the idea with a colleague.

"I wanted to get father figures into the building because they play an intricate part in raising our students," Guest said. "Donuts With Dad has created a sense of community and belonging, showing dads and father figures that they are welcome at HMS. We want them involved in their child's education."

Jared Taillefer, Executive Director of Great Oaks Legacy Charter School, also praised the event's impact.

"We're incredibly proud of the impact events like Donuts With Dad have on our school community," Taillefer said. "By hosting events that foster stronger relationships between fathers and their children, we're not just building connections at home, but laying the foundation for academic success and future growth. These are the moments that help shape the future of our students."

Since the event began, Guest has seen an increase in father participation across other school events, with more attending Back to School Night and HMS' annual Gratitude Lunch. The event's success lies not only in its growth but in the connection it fosters between fathers, their children, and the school community.

Devon Bourne, whose son Kal'el is a seventh grader at HMS, expressed his appreciation for the school's efforts.

"Great Oaks Legacy always has really good events. Parent participation is big here," Bourne said. "Dads don't always get recognized for their roles in their children's education, and it feels good to be appreciated."

Kal'el agreed. "It feels good to take a break from school to spend time with my dad," he said. "This is why I like Great Oaks. They have specific events that are unique for students and our families."

Trinity Jones shared her excitement. "I love this. My dad is the best dad ever," she said. "I wish my dad could come to school with me every day!"

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