MILLCREEK — Morning drop-off looked a little different at William Penn Elementary School this week.
Instead of a typical curbside goodbye, students were greeted by cheering dads, a red-carpet rollout, and even cups of hot chocolate to start their day.
The surprise was organized by a group called All Pro Dads, which partnered with the school ahead of Valentine's Day to create a memorable morning focused on encouragement and connection.
"I think this is great," said Travis Jones, a William Penn parent who participated in the event. "The kids show up here and they are feeling super welcome and it's kind of a fun deal to do."
Dads lined the drop-off area, helping students out of their cars, offering high-fives and handshakes and welcoming them as they walked into school.
Principal Brett Bawden said the red carpet was meant to represent something bigger.
"So the red carpet is just a way to kind of symbolize that love that dads have for their students," Bawden said. "Dads were helping kids get out of the car and just being a friendly face for the kids to see when they first come to school."
Students smiled as they made their way down the carpet before heading inside for class. For volunteers like Jones, the effort goes beyond just one morning.
"I know a lot of these kids. I've volunteered here quite a bit, so I know them by name," Jones said. "It's fun to see them, and it's kind to have that welcoming face in the morning."
School leaders hope events like this encourage more parents to get involved and help create positive starts to the school day.
Photos
Most recent Utah stories
Related topics
Tyrese Boone
