Keeping Kids Safe: Inside the Role of Hamilton’s School Resource Officer with Deputy Dekkinga

Описание: H2Know Podcast Episode Description

In this episode of the H2Know Podcast, host Zach Harig sits down with Deputy John Dekkinga, School Resource Officer for Hamilton Community Schools and a deputy with the Allegan County Sheriff’s Office.

A 2018 graduate of Hamilton High School, Deputy Dekkinga reflects on what it’s like returning to his home district in a new role — one that goes far beyond law enforcement. Together, they dive into school safety, relationship-building with students, school zone speed enforcement, red light violations around school buses, and how parents can help keep kids safe both on the road and online.

This candid conversation pulls back the curtain on what an SRO actually does day-to-day, why presence matters, and how proactive communication and trust can prevent problems before they start.


⏱️ Episode Highlights & Topics Covered

👮‍♂️ From Hawkeye to SRO
What it’s like returning to Hamilton as a School Resource Officer after graduating in 2018

🎒 What a School Resource Officer Really Does
Why an SRO isn’t “the scary cop”

🚸 School Zone & Traffic Safety
Why M-40 / 136 is a 25 mph school zone during arrival and dismissal

🚌 School Bus Red Light Violations
How new stop-arm cameras are improving accountability

📱 Social Media & Student Safety
What Deputy Dekkinga shares with students during lunch presentations

🤝 Relationships First, Discipline Second
Why the goal is prevention — not punishment

🏫 Why Police Presence in Schools Matters
The balance between safety, trust, and approachability