Dads Working Together To Keep Woodland School In Top Shape

WOODLAND (CBS13) - As shrinking budgets cut into school resources, a team of dads at Gibson Elementary in Woodland is digging right into the problem.

They raked leaves, dumped debris and cleared walkways. Thirty volunteers were busy at Gibson Elementary on this beautification day

"I've been trimming over there and pulling some weeds over there," said a student.

Retired police officer Gene Hunter started Dads On Campus after realizing a need for some extra help at the school.

When Principal Scott Clary gave Hunter the green light, a team was formed.

"We care about the education of our kids and also the beauty of the place that they have to come to to learn," said Hunter.

Filling the gaps of basic maintenance needs at the school is what keeps the group of dads, and a few moms, busy at Gibson. Principal Scott Clary says the group has become a valuable resource.

"I think it shows in our achievement, but also in the way our school culture feels," said Clary.

"Nobody would want to go to a school if it's all messy," said a student.

The group teams up with the PTA to complete school projects such as new tether ball poles and fundraisers. Recently, Home Depot donated $2,300 to the program for new irrigation and a salsa garden

"It's our way of giving back together, and it's a way to teach him about, you know, civic duty and our responsibility to the rest of the community," said John Farley, a Dads On Campus volunteer.

"I think frequently dads are an underused resource at elementary schools," said Clary.