Some Queens dads went back to school on Tuesday to learn about their role in kid's academic success. NY1's Clodagh McGowan filed the following report.
Father of two, Emory de Koop says it's the little things that make an impact in a child's life.
"Before you know it, years go by. You lose moments that you're not even aware of 'cause you're working, you're providing for your family. And so, I think it's really important to take that time and be there for your kids," said de Koop.
That's why it was important for the Astoria resident to take his children to school Tuesday, to mark the state wide initiative, “Dads Take Your Child to School Day”.
He's one of more than 100 fathers, uncles and grandfathers who spent the morning at PS 17 to support their kids.
"It means a lot to me to be able to come and be there for him, hopefully be inspirational to him and show that I can be a good role model for him,” said Derek Peith, also a father of two.
Principal Rebecca Heyward says it was important for the fathers to feel welcome. So, they planned an assembly and gave the dads the royal treatment.
"We had a theme, 'I am a king in a child's life,' and KING was an acronym that stands for knowledgeable, inspirational, nurturing and gallant," said Heyward.
“Dads Take Your Child to School Day” began back in 2003 and is now celebrated at schools throughout New York State.
Department of Education Executive Superintendent Yolanda Torres says research shows a father's involvement in school leads to students improving academically.
"Our male figures have so much to contribute to. It's so important for them to see what's happening in the schools, how they can also contribute," said Torres.
School staff say they hope the fathers can take some of the lessons home with them too...
"We talked a lot today about putting down the cellphones, putting down the devices because all parents, I'm a parent myself, and we all are hooked on our technology," explained Heyward.
As for the kids who did not have a male figure present, dads we spoke with say it takes a village to raise a child and they're happy to be a role model to all the students.