Oshkosh police officer shares special bond with student who has autism
OSHKOSH (WLUK) -- As officer Ian Seaholm walked the halls of Oshkosh North High School Friday, he surprised one of his favorite student's, Jared Falk, for his birthday.
"Jared is just a kid I've gotten to know over the last couple of years and he has an infectious personality that no matter what kind of day you're having he can bring a smile to your face," said Ian Seaholm.
Seaholm is a school resource officer. Over the years, he and Falk have become pretty good friends.
"I see him at basketball games. I see him out in the community and he always takes the time to come up to me and ask me how I'm doing," Seaholm said.
He thinks Falk's kindness goes a long way.
"Jared is not only a role model to other students, not only in this school but out in the community but he's a role model to adults," Seaholm said.
He says since they've been friends, Falk had one small request.
"For four years, Jared has been asking me to take him in a squad car. So, Jared, we have a squad car outside. We brought our biggest one," Seaholm said.
"I'm just blown away by Officer Seaholm's kindness," said Wendy Falk, Jared Falk's mom.
Wendy Falk says even though her son has autism, it doesn't define him and she sees the positive impact he has on Seaholm and others.
"To realize that he is making that difference and that he is able to have such wonderful skills and make such wonderful connections, it's honestly all that we could've hoped for," she said.
As for Falk, the day is one he likely won't forget.
"I loved the surprise to be honest because I'm like, I expected nothing," said Jared Falk.
The final part of the surprise was lunch at Falk's favorite restaurant, The Roxy Supper Club.
Falk is a Special Olympics of Wisconsin athlete. His mom says Falk hopes to attend college next fall.
