By David Murchland - Marshfield Now!
AUBURNDALE, Wis. — A new therapy dog is making a strong impression in the Auburndale School District, where administrators and law enforcement officials say the dog is helping students feel calmer, safer and more connected.
District leaders recently appeared on County Connections on Marshfield Now! to discuss the addition of a school resource officer and therapy dog in the district.
“Ripp,” a therapy dog handled by Wood County Sheriff’s Deputy and school resource officer Jesse Nehls, recently began visiting district schools as part of the district’s first full-time school resource officer program.
“Ripp has had such a positive impact on our district in the short time he’s been here,” Superintendent Steven Van Wyhe said. “You see so many smiling faces whenever he enters the building.”
The school year marked the first time Auburndale added a full-time school resource officer, the result of a partnership between the district and the Wood County Sheriff’s Department. Nehls, a 16-year law enforcement veteran, transitioned from patrol duties into the school setting this year.
“It’s been a much different experience than being on patrol, but it’s been positive,” Nehls said. “Every day, there’s something good going on in the school.”
Nehls said the addition of Ripp has strengthened relationships with students who may not have previously interacted with law enforcement. Students regularly stop by his office to visit the dog, creating opportunities for conversation and trust-building.
“Without even realizing it, they’re building that relationship with me,” Nehls said. “They open up more.”
District officials say Ripp has been especially helpful in situations where students are experiencing stress or emotional challenges. The dog visits classrooms, guidance offices and lunch areas and is sometimes used to help new students adjust to the school environment.
“This is another tool for us,” Van Wyhe said. “Sometimes just having a calming presence makes a difference.”
The therapy dog program was approved following discussions among district leaders, the school board and the sheriff’s department. Officials said Ripp’s temperament and training made him a good fit for a school environment.
Auburndale does not have its own local police department and relies on the sheriff’s department for law enforcement services. District leaders say having a school resource officer on site has improved school safety and communication.
Nehls monitors security cameras throughout the schools and responds quickly to situations, helping de-escalate conflicts before they escalate. Administrators say behavioral referrals have decreased since the program began.
Teachers and students have responded positively, officials said, and Ripp has become a familiar and comforting presence throughout the district.
“Our mascot is the Eagles, but Ripp is starting to feel like one too,” Van Wyhe said. “He’s become part of the culture here.”
While district leaders say there are no immediate plans to expand the therapy dog program, they believe the partnership could serve as a model for other rural school districts.
“For our size, we’re very fortunate,” Van Wyhe said. “This shows what’s possible when schools and law enforcement work together.”
📺 Watch the full episode of County Connections on Marshfield Now! Channel 990 and on its streaming platforms.