Watch D.O.G.S. at Andy Woods Elementary; Golden Apple Educator - KYTX CBS 19 Tyler Longview News Weather Sports

By Meghan McDermott

Dads, grand-dads, uncles, step-dads and adult brothers are encouraged to become a watch dog.

"We are starting it tonight and plan to have volunteers on our campus as soon as possible," said Andy Woods Counselor, Becky Caldwell.

This is the first time for Andy Woods to take part in Watch D.O.G.S. -- a national program that's getting fathers and father-figures involved in their student's life.

"This is just a super, super opportunity for them," said PTA volunteer, Tonya Skorcki.

Dad volunteers will sign up for a half-day or full day of volunteering once during the school year. School counselor, Becky Caldwell, says there are many ways the men can help.

"They will be unloading cars, maybe unloading buses. They will be a presence in P.E., they might be having fun with students at recess. Hopefully tutor some small groups, maybe do a read-aloud in their student's class," said Caldwell.

Tonya Skorcki is the PTA representative for Watch D.O.G.S. at Andy Woods. She says it's great to see dads getting involved on campus.

"There are many willing men out there-- fathers and father figures-- that would love to be up here doing things on campus, but they just aren't sure where they fit in," said Caldwell.

The school anticipated about 200 men signing up for Watch D.O.G.S. but, so far, more than 350 have signed up.

Glen English is the campus technology specialist for Hubbard Middle School in Tyler. He works behind the scenes to make sure the campus is running smoothly.

"Thank you very much. This was a nice surprise," said Glen English, Campus Technology Specialist.

English has been at Hubbard for nine years. And says he loves working in the family atmosphere of the school.

"This is the best place that I could be. I think it's the most rewarding job I've ever had," said English.

As a fellow teacher wrote, " he works extra hours, nights, weekends and summer without getting paid to make sure our campus is in working order."

CBS 19 is proud to give the Golden Apple Award to glen English at Hubbard Middle School.

To nominate a Golden Apple Educator from your child's school, send a nomination to mmcdermott@cbs19.tv