The largest turnout of sons and fathers to date attended the 12th annual “Building Ties’ Father-Son Conference on Sept. 23 at Socorro High School.
The conference, for boys in grades 6 through 12, serves to help fathers or father-figures and sons unite and explore topics such as college opportunities, career choices, and social and emotional awareness.
The more than 520 attendees heard from keynote speaker Dr. William Serrata, president of El Paso Community College, and enjoyed various activities, including making pizzas together in a culinary arts session, partaking in a fencing class and more.
Serrata spoke on the importance of education, the need for fathers to set a good example to encourage their children, and his personal experience of bonding with his stepfather.
“Father figures are so important,” Serrata said. “Thank you for being here to set a good example so we can build leaders to change the world.”
Students and their guests also explored the endless opportunities SISD offers, including early college programs and advanced academic academies.
The event consisted of three college and career readiness sessions, physical and interactive activities, and life skills.
“We have brought together fathers and sons so that they can bond and build those connections for the future while getting them ready for college and career and having a great time,” said Claudia Perales, Title I Specialist for Parent and Family Engagement in Socorro ISD. “This is very important because we know our students will succeed if we have the family involved.”
Brandon Rosales, a seventh-grade student at Col. John O. Ensor Middle School, said he enjoyed spending time with his father and participating in the various activities together.
“It’s cool to have this one-on-one time together that we haven’t had before,” Rosales said. “I’ll remember today forever.
Javier Rosales, Brandon’s father, said this was their first time attending the event, and he found the experience remarkable.
“I think for a lot of working dads, it’s hard because you come home tired and don’t have time, but once you’re here, you don’t want it to stop,” Rosales said. “I have loved spending time with my son today, and I can’t stop smiling.”
Micah Webb-Dukes, a Pebble Hills High School senior, said it was a fun day with his father.
“Today, spending time with my dad, we got to get closer and talked about a lot of things,” Webb-Dukes said. “We don’t get to spend time like this, and it’s fun because I don’t get to see that side of my dad too often. So, I think the district is doing a great job with this event because it helps improve the bond between families.”
Micah’s father, William Dukes, said it was a great event to spend time with his son and learn about the opportunities the district has to offer.
“A lot of times, we’re both busy running around, so this has been great,” Dukes said. “This shows the district cares about the kids, and they want to see them succeed.”
12th annual “Building Ties’ Father-Son Conference event photos