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Men Making A Difference In Their Children's Schooling

By Dr. Marciene Mattleman

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Kenneth Doles came to school and taught his six-year-old son to make a half-Windsor knot on his necktie.

Doles was part of a group of 2,000 dads, granddads, and male role models in 100 schools in Prince George's County, Maryland, who were welcomed on Men Making A Difference Day.

Some did relay races, others heard motivational speakers and some learned how to gauge thickness with a ruler, two pencils and three rubber bands. All got to see schooling firsthand.

Studies have shown that students with involved parents are more likely to earn higher grades, have better social skills and attend school more regularly. Michael Robinson, coordinator of the event for five years, suggests that those who can't come, buy supplies, help with homework or attend school board meetings.

Those who have participated have visited classrooms and dropped off lunches more frequently, clearly feeling welcomed in their children's schools.

Read more in The Washington Post.

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