The Dad’s Club at César Chávez Elementary is proof that when families get involved, everyone wins
At César Chávez Elementary, about 100 dads, grandpas, uncles, and caregivers show up to campus every month for Dad’s Club. They play lotería, make art with their kids, and compete in games. The club grew out of a family survey where more than 90 percent of families said they wanted more ways to engage with their child’s school.
“Being involved in my child’s school programs improves their learning,” said Juan Rosales, president of the Dad’s Club. “It motivates them to go to school, enhances their socio-emotional skills, and boosts their academic success.”
Chávez Elementary is one of San Diego Unified’s Community Schools, which bring together community resources like wellness centers, food pantries, tutoring, and family programs to support the whole student. Community Schools Site Coordinator Samantha Tellez and third- and fourth-grade teacher and Community Schools Site Coach Lorraine Hernandez-Gurrola have been catalysts for this work, building the Dad’s Club and other family programs that are inspiring engagement across the Chávez community.
Tellez said the Dad’s Club aligns with the district’s Goals and Guardrails by fostering family partnerships, promoting student success, and creating opportunities for families to engage as leaders and collaborators.
“When we bring parents onto campus and make them true partners, everyone wins,” said Dr. Steven Dorsey, Area E superintendent. “What’s happening at César Chávez Elementary with 100 families showing up every month is exactly the kind of engagement we need across all our schools.”
Members of the Cesar Chavez Elementary School Dad's Club. About 100 dads, grandpas, uncles, and caregivers show up to campus every month for Dad’s Club
The work happening at Chávez Elementary is a model for what family engagement can look like across San Diego Unified. Whether it’s a Dad’s Club, a classroom volunteer shift, or a seat on a school committee, every form of involvement makes a difference. Here are resources to help you get started.
How to Get Involved
- Volunteer at your child’s school: Visit the Volunteer Program page or call the district volunteer coordinator at 619-725-5594 to sign up as a classroom assistant, tutor, field trip chaperone, and more. Nearly 30,000 volunteers serve across district schools each year.
- PowerSchool Parent Portal: Log in at powerschool.sandi.net to access grades, assignments, attendance records, after-school programs, and college readiness workshops.
- Family Resource Guide: Available through the Parent Resources page, it includes information on district programs, support services, and family opportunities.
- School Site Council (SSC) and English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC): Join decision-making groups that shape school programs and policies. Contact your school’s front office to learn about meeting dates.
- Parent-Teacher Organizations: Connect with other families and support school events, fundraising, and student programs.
- Coffee with the Principal and family events: Attend regular campus events designed to bring families and school leaders together.
- Area and school newsletters: Read your area’s and school’s weekly newsletter through sandiegounified.org to stay informed about events and opportunities.
Getting involved is one of the most valuable things you can do for your child and their school community. Contact your child’s school today to learn how you can make a difference.
Article written by a communications team member on behalf of the San Diego Unified School District Strategic Communications and Information Department.