Influencer of the Week: Jose Massanet, Ocoee Middle

Ocoee Police Officer Jose Massanet is the school resource officer at Ocoee Middle. His dedication to the whole student has been a true asset to our school,” said Principal Samuel Davis. “He goes out of his way to build authentic, mentoring relationships with all of our students and has made some significant impacts on students who otherwise might make different choices. He has been very influential in building student connection to the campus (and) making school positive for kids. His dedication to the safety of our campus is second to none — leading trainings and partnering with school administration to ensure the campus is safe.

What do you love most about the school?

The kids, of course! I love the feeling of family when I come to the school every day. The staff at Ocoee Middle School is absolutely amazing. They all work so well together and (this), at times, makes my job easier. I love the diversity of the staff and school and that each student is treated equally.

What is your motivation?

My motivation is knowing I am making a difference in these kids — trying to give them a positive outlook of a police officer other than what they may only see on TV. I strive to be a positive role model in my community. My goal is to have a profound impact on the students that it would motivate them to be the best version of themselves.

What is the most rewarding part of your job?

I feel like I have made it when I get invited by the students to be in their TikToks! The interactions that I have daily with the students is what makes my position as a school resource officer the best in all the agency. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

My spare time is committed to my family. My kids keep me busy with their sporting events, practices, school work, etc.

When did you decide to become a police officer? Why?

With having uncles in law enforcement, I always looked up to what they did. My parents originally did not want me in law enforcement, but this ended up being the best decision made, and being an SRO is a position I have thoroughly enjoyed. 

When you were a child, what did you want to be when you grew up? Why?

As a little kid I was fortunate enough to have the ability to play sports. Did not matter which sport it was — I was all for it. At a very young age I excelled in baseball — so, of course, the MLB was where I would end up, playing for the best team, Atlanta Braves. I always knew, though, that whatever I was going to become, it would be where I can help. 

What are your hobbies?

If it is not coaching my kids in their sports, I currently play competitive softball. I have been playing for about 16 years. I also started playing on a flag football team. 

If you could only listen to three bands or artists for the rest of your life, what would they be and why?

I am a big hip-hop and R&B fan. It’s very hard to just narrow it down to only several artists. 

How long have you been at OMS and with the Ocoee Police Department?

I have been at Ocoee Middle School as an SRO for two years. Prior to Ocoee Middle School, I was the SRO at Ocoee High School for four years. I have been with the city of Ocoee for 10 years. 

Describe your job duties and share any job-related accolades.

As a school resource officer, my role is mainly for safety and security. However, in addition to being a law-enforcement officer, I at times wear the hat of guidance counselor, teacher or just simply someone to bounce ideas off of. My goal is not to find every mistake these students make. My goal is to help the students learn from it and not repeat it.

Massanet has earned the CIT Officer of the Year Award, the ASIS LEO Award for Youth Services twice, Support Person of the Month at Ocoee High and Officer of the Third Quarter.