Officer Jake Folk Chosen as a True Friend of Education

Officer Jake Folk has been named a True Friend of Education by the Milbank Education Association (MEA). Folk received the True Friend of Education Award at the Milbank School District Board of Education meeting on Monday, November 11. According to Josh Schmeichel, president of MEA, Officer Folk started as a resource officer to protect the school, and his role has continued to evolve. 

“Jake is approaching his third year as the school resource officer for our district,” stated Milbank Superintendent Justin Downes. “MEA selected Jake for this award for all of the relationships he has built, as well as his efforts in and out of the school building.”

 “It’s kind of a rare occasion not to see a kid stop by (his office) to talk to him or see what’s going on,” said Schmeichel. “I don’t make it over to the elementary side much, but whenever I do see him around elementary kids, they tend to flock to him. I guess  another great thing is it’s good…l to show that police officers are something safe. It gives our kids a safe place to go to in the school to talk to someone when they need to.”

Along with campus security, Folk sometimes works with the administration, staff, and students to resolve discipline issues, especially when a student is having a rough time. Folk has also become well-versed in the various aspects of the Fourth Amendment, and the DARE program continues to be an important part of his position. 

Upon receiving the award, Folk said, “I am completely honored…but in our rural area, we just do it because we’re called to do it. We don’t do it for any recognition.” He also said he is honored to have the relationship he has with the school and that they have put their trust in him. He noted, “I have a fun side that comes out, too, you know, the Grinch costume last year and my Halloween costume. That side comes out, but I take this very seriously, and the safety of staff and students, of course, is paramount.”