Harrison Thorp 9 a.m.
Sunday, February 15, 2026 8:58 am
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ROCHESTER - Spaulding High School Resource Officer Andrew Jackson grew up in Rochester, graduated from Spaulding High School, took the Red Raiders football team to its most recent state title as its quarterback in 1990 and is now the varsity head coach at Spaulding High where he also serves as the Rochester Police Department's school resource officer.
And he's not lost on the special role he gets to play on and off the field.
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| THE BONDS THAT TIE - Spaulding High School Resource Officer Andrew Jackson at his office desk. Behind his computer on the wall are thank you notes and cards from students. The picture on his desk shows his two sons during a Red Raider Baseball practice: Conner Jackson, #10 on third, and pitcher Noah Jackson. |
"Growing up here, going to school here, it means a lot to me being the school resource officer," he said on Friday. "It gives me a feeling of dedication to the community."
Jackson, known to students as "Mr. Clean," has served as the SRO at Spaulding for 12 years. He said his role is "security and safety" for the 1,300 Rochester students who attend the city's high school.
Jackson said one of his roles is to respond to the occasional altercation.
"Ninety percent of the time it's over before I get there," he said. "I'll stay in the area to control the environment. If it can't be controlled then I have to move in."
Jackson added that as the Red Raiders football team's head coach, he's got an extra edge with anyone on his squad.
"Anyone doing stupid things in the hall will usually stop when they see me," he smiled. "They don't want to get less playing time."
Jackson said there's been many times over the years when he's had an impact on wayward students who found it hard to adjust to high school life.
'About five years ago, this young man was in his first year at Spaulding," he said. "It started rough, he was always in trouble, I told him you have to find a way to stop this cycle. He ended up straightening himself up, graduated and went onto a successful career in the trades."
Spaulding High Principal Justin Roy added on Friday that Jackson was was a positive force within in the fabric of Spaulding High culture.
"He is an integral part of our safety and well being with community policing," he said. "And he is a great role model for our students."
You might say "Mr. Clean" is sitting in the proverbial "Catbird Seat," and he probably wouldn't deny it.
"I don't know how long I'll continue to do this, but I know I'm very happy doing this," he said.