That’s a Wrap: Reflecting on an Incredible Year at Olathe East Father’s Club

By Tyler Cook, Chapter Chair at Olathe East High School for Father’s Club

As the school year winds down and the summer vibes start creeping in, it’s the perfect time to look back at what we just pulled off. To put it simply: this year was awesome.

We talk a lot about “intentionality” in Father’s Club, but this past year wasn’t just about talking—it was about showing up. Our mission has always been simple: invest in our Students, support our Community, and build real connections with other Dads.

Looking back at the calendar, we didn’t just scratch the surface. Nearly 50 Dads stepped up to the plate this year, knocking out over 50 events and opportunities across the school calendar.

The Highlight Reel: What We Did

If you saw a group of guys having fun, handing out high fives, or standing around a grill at OE this year, it was probably us. Here is just a taste of how we stayed busy:

Supporting Our Students & School Spirit

• The Kickoff: We started the year right with a massive Varsity Football Tailgate, where we met other Dads, connected with students and fed fans
• Friday Energy: Our monthly Fist Bump Fridays became a staple, launching students into their day with high energy (and maybe a few bad Dad jokes).
• Exam Fuel: We handed out #2 pencils, positive vibes, and fist bumps on standardized testing days. We also know that students do better on tests when they have breakfast, so we brought Chick-Fil-A to keep them fed and focused on the first day of Finals
• School Events: From helping with table games at OE’s Casino Night to setting up for the ELA Awards, working coat check and welcoming students at Prom, helping out at Choir Pancake Breakfasts, and partnering with students on class projects, we were there.
• Won Big: We faced off against Olathe South Dads in our annual halftime showdown, winning a pizza party for our students at the OE vs. OS varsity basketball game… and no Dads got hurt!
• Celebrated Seniors: We had fun setting up games and getting things ready for the offsite Senior Picnic and participated in the largest OE kickball game!

Grilling, Giving Back, and Community Partnerships

• The Ultimate Grilling Crew: We fired up the grills all year long. We partnered with StuCo for the Homecoming Bonfire, the first Varsity Football game, and grilled for teachers during Teacher Appreciation Week with no injuries to note other than a few burnt hot dogs and burgers
• IPS Support: Some of our favorite moments involved firing up the grill for Unified Soccer, Olathe District-Wide Field Day, and end of year student and senior celebrations.
• Helping Hawks Take Flight: We were incredibly proud to award scholarships to two deserving seniors who showed perseverance and resilience

Mental Health & Connections

• Real Support: We deeply value our partnership with OE Counselors, supporting them during Kindness Week and collaborating on mental health and awareness efforts during the year
• The Legacy Letter Challenge: We hosted this powerful initiative, teaching parents how to write meaningful, lasting letters to their graduating seniors.

Dad-to-Dad Connections

• It wasn’t just about volunteering; it was about community. Our Monthly Coffee Talks, Monthly Dad Night Happy Hours and grilling together at events gave us a casual space to hang out, laugh, and get to know other Dads in the community.

The Thank You List (The Most Important Part)

An operation like this doesn’t happen in a vacuum. We owe a massive shoutout to everyone who made this year possible:

• To OE Administration, Teachers, and Staff: Thank you for opening your doors, collaborating and supporting us.
• To OE Students: Thanks for your smiles, your fist bumps, for laughing at our jokes (or at least politely rolling your eyes) and cheering us on. That simple stuff means the world to us.
• To Moms and Families: Thank you for the constant encouragement and for pushing the Dads in your life to get involved.
• To Donors: A huge thank you to every Dad, group, and business that donated in support of our initiatives. A special shoutout goes to CommunityAmerica, who joined us in our mission this year!
• To Dads: Without you, none of this would be possible. Thanks for your time, your intention, and your endless support.

Simple Actions. Big Impact.

If this year proved anything, it’s that simple actions go a long way. You don’t need a ton of free time to make a difference—you just have to show up when you can. The more Dads we have on board, the larger the impact we can make for these kids.

Want to join us at Olathe East next year? Whether you can make it to one event or twenty, we’d love to have you. Reach out to me with questions, and make sure to sign up to get on our email list so you don’t miss out on future activities.

Have a great summer!

Next Steps

• To get involved with a Father’s Club chapter at your school, visit the Chapters page on our website.
• If there isn’t a chapter currently at your school and you would like to know more about starting a Father’s Club chapter, visit the Contact page and fill out the form with your details and we will be in touch!