Father figures: Dads join students during annual Fathers Walk Your Child to School Day

Students at Franklin Elementary School in Massillon couldn't help but smile as they arrived at school on Thursday.

Many were accompanied by their dad or a father figure. They also enjoyed a cookie with their dad before heading to their classroom.

Fathers and role models were invited to walk or drive their children to school during the annual Fathers Walk Your Child to School Day.

The initiative is sponsored by Stark County Job & Family Services and the Stark County Fatherhood Coalition and aims to encourage fathers and others to be active participants in their children's lives and serve as positive role models. The act of walking or driving them to school shows the child they care and support their education.

Elementary schools in Massillon City, Canton City, Alliance City and Plain Local school districts participated in the event. Representatives from the agencies were joined by school officials to greet the kids and hand out goodies. Some schools hosted fun activities for the students and dads.

Jerry Coleman, Stark County Jobs & Family Services executive director, said the walk helps to not only tell kids they are supported but also to strengthen the bond the child and father share.

"Our goal is to encourage fathers to become more involved," said Ann Durkin, deputy director of the division of child support. "We are impressed each year with the number of families who participate in this event."

This article originally appeared on The Independent: Father figures: Dads join students during annual Fathers Walk Your Child to School Day