“I am for the child” (CASA 2015) are words that Doug Pearson exemplifies everyday in his role as Dowagiac Union High School Student Advocate.  He works for the child.  He works with the child.  He beliefs in the children of Dowagiac.

Mr. Pearson came to DUHS as a retired Colonel for the United States Air Force. His experiences are vast. Yet, he decided to return to Dowagiac to be near family and give back to HIS community, and give back he does.

In his role as Student Advocate, he regularly helps students by providing academic support, building relationships and creating lasting ties to our community. He is responsible for creating and promoting the Dowagiac Youth Experiencing Success Program, better known as YES. With the support of many local business, this program recognizes students who are achieving well or improving their academics.  In this way, Col. Pearson builds our young people.

Building relationships is also key to his success. When he is finished mentoring high school students, Col. Pearson finds ways to connect with younger students.  Recently, Col. Pearson authored a children’s book entitled, “Wiggly Waggly Worm,” and donated copies to each of our elementary buildings. He agreed to return to the schools as a guest author to personally read his book to the students. In this way, Col. Pearson connects with our children.

Col. Pearson’s commitment to serving his community will soon extend beyond the doors of Dowagiac Union Schools.  He is currently being trained as a Cass County Court Appointed Special Advocate or CASA. In this new role, he will be able to help children of all ages throughout the community and bring his new knowledge to help those in need here.

Col. Pearson truly believes in our community and believes in our children. He is my starfish.

 

Kelly Millin

Principal, Dowagiac Union High School