October 28, 2026 — At Clarkdale Elementary School, student success is a team effort, and more than 160 dads recently gathered to prove it during a Champion Dads breakfast. The event celebrated the growing program’s mission to encourage fathers and other male role models to become active, visible partners in their children's education.

Launched as a pilot program last year, Champion Dads at the Dale was created to help men recognize the important role they play in their children’s academic success and to build a stronger sense of community at Clarkdale. The program offers activities and opportunities for fathers to get involved in school life, from volunteering in classrooms and helping in the cafeteria to supporting students in other ways. 

Assistant Principal Charlie Eaddy leads and coordinates the program at the school. He said it has received an enthusiastic response. About 140 fathers signed up for the breakfast, but even more attended. The check-in line stretched from the school to the packed parking lot. In fact, the response was so overwhelming that the school ran out of food.

"We've had tremendous buy-in and acceptance," AP Eaddy said gratefully. "Our fathers come and volunteer in classrooms. They help our students in many other ways. They've been a really powerful presence at Clarkdale!"

For Mike Logan, a father of two Clarkdale students in first and fourth grades, the program has already made a meaningful difference. He said his daughters love seeing him at school and regularly ask when he will return. He has also noticed that other students recognize him, creating connections that extend beyond his own family. Logan believes those relationships help build a network of trust throughout the school. 

"When fathers become familiar faces to students, families, and staff, they help foster a stronger sense of community and an additional layer of support for children," Logan said. "This program has also created opportunities for dads to connect with one another and build friendships while working toward a shared goal."

Although many dads must balance full-time jobs and other responsibilities, Logan said they are making it a priority to show up because they believe their presence matters. The friendly and supportive environment in the Clarkdale Cafe during breakfast proves that their investment of time is paying off in big ways.

"It's a beautiful thing to look out and see hundreds of dads coming to support their children this morning," said Cobb Schools Board Member Dr. Tre Hutchins. "Hopefully, this encourages them to continue to stay engaged with their young people throughout their K-12 experience. This represents the strong community we have here in Austell. I'm so excited about the future of these kids!"

Through Champion Dads, Clarkdale is building a culture in which fathers know they are valued, students see their families actively supporting their education, and the entire school community benefits from stronger relationships. The breakfast was much more than a successful event; it demonstrated the power of families and schools working together, and that student success is a shared commitment.

"My hope is that we are able to empower our men to see their need to be in our schools. Their presence impacts students more than they know. It is making a huge difference every day!" concluded AP Eaddy about his school's Champion Dads.