The Washington State PTSA holds a yearly statewide essay contest that explores the important and varied contributions that men make in the lives and education of children -- from the child's perspective. All men involved in a child's life -- fathers, uncles, grandfathers, brothers, step-fathers, mentors, neighbors, pastors, coaches and friends -- impact the children they care about. Research clearly shows that male involvement positively influences academic success at all levels of schooling -- preschool through college.