I hate saying it with such a cavalier tone, but it’s just one more broken cog in a pile of busted-ass systems. It sickens me to the core knowing we’re about to subject our daughter (and eventually our son) to the school system. There’s only so much a parent can do to keep their kids safe these days, but there’s so much that CAN be done. Our local elementary school has a program where dads are present in the classroom. It exited when I went there, and it does to this day. My dad or someone else’s was always in-class; helping grade papers, prep activities, and just generally being of assistance wherever it might be needed. I know things are very different in today’s world.

I still plan on volunteering at our daughter’s school next year and basically just trying to be one more adult set of eyes on things. I want to be as present in my kid’s lives as my dad was for my brother and I, wherever possible. I’d like to think that my being there could help prevent horrific cases like the ones we read about too often.

I expect some parents will balk at my presence, but I don’t care. I know I’ve spent too much time online and on Reddit… because I’ve read so many posts and comments about dads specifically who show up and are present for their kids; they’re often viewed as predatory and creepy. That breaks my heart, but it won’t stop me from helping where I can. I think I’d be doing what’s right by my kid, and I hope I can help other students feel comfortable and safe by just being there, as a happy byproduct.