The school resource officer that uses his ‘dad skills’ to help students

EATON RAPIDS, Mich. (InvestigateTV) - Jason Ferguson has walked the halls of Eaton Rapids High School for four years as the school resource officer, but his approach relies more on parenting experience than his 34 years in law enforcement.

Ferguson spent most of his career at the Ingham County Sheriff’s Office, where he worked in the jail, served as a canine officer and worked as a homicide detective.

At the high school, however, he said his “dad skills play way more than law enforcement skills.”

Ferguson created “Food with Ferg,” a weekly program where he takes three students for lunch at one of six Eaton Rapids restaurants that offer lunch free of charge. The program allows him to connect with students one-on-one outside the school environment.

“This is the sole reason why I started ‘Food with Ferg’ is so I can talk to kids one on one,” Ferguson said.

During these lunches, Ferguson discusses students’ futures, including college, trades and military options. The conversations range from light topics to serious discussions about school safety.

Administrative Assistant Alicia Cooper said Ferguson serves multiple roles for students.

“He’s a friend, he is sometimes a therapist,” Cooper said. “He tries to make so many connections with the kids, and the kids really relate to him in certain ways.”

Ferguson maintains a storage closet filled with donated shoes, clothing and personal items for students in need throughout the district and county. He also helps students write scholarship applications and letters of recommendation.

“My primary function is safety and security, but what I do most of the time is mentor and work with young kids, parents, families through trouble,” Ferguson said.

When it comes to his high school attire Ferguson says don’t let the uniform fool you, even though it’s the first thing you see, it’s not what he wants to be.

“This is here because I have to wear it, and I have to provide safety and security, but I’m here to help you make better decisions.”

Ferguson describes his role as being a “uniform dad” who works to make high school a better experience for students.