Wyandanch Schools Join Suffolk Sheriff’s ‘Handle With Care’ Program

nWYANDANCH, NY — The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office is expanding its “Handle With Care” initiative to the Wyandanch Union Free School District, giving educators a discreet way to support students who may be dealing with trauma outside the classroom.

Errol Toulon Jr. said Monday the program connects law enforcement with school officials to ensure children who may have witnessed or experienced a traumatic incident receive appropriate support during the school day.

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The initiative was first piloted with the Huntington School District in September 2025 and has since expanded to the Central Islip School District.

Under the program, the Sheriff’s Office will notify designated school staff if a child was present during a law enforcement-related incident. The notification includes only the address and the phrase “Handle with Care,” without sharing any details about the event.

That limited but timely alert allows teachers and staff to adjust their approach — whether that means offering flexibility with assignments or connecting students and families with additional support services.

“The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office is proud to expand this and further our partnership with the Wyandanch School District,” Toulon said. “We have seen firsthand that this program gives us a simple, confidential way to help children who may need extra patience and compassion because of a situation at home.”

Toulon said he hopes more districts will participate as the initiative continues to grow across Suffolk County.

“Our district is committed to supporting students and families not only in their education, but in all aspects of their well-being,” said Erik Wright, superintendent of the Wyandanch Union Free School District. “This collaboration equips our educators with the awareness needed to meet students where they are and reinforces the importance of prioritizing their social-emotional needs.”

The Sheriff’s Office and Wyandanch schools have an ongoing partnership, including the recent rollout of the Student Ambassador Program at both the high school and middle school, aimed at strengthening relationships between students and law enforcement.

Officials said the “Handle with Care” program builds on those efforts by focusing on student well-being. Deputies regularly encounter children during civil actions, warrant service, traffic stops, and community events — situations that can be stressful and impact behavior or academic performance.

By notifying schools without sharing sensitive information, the program allows educators to respond with added awareness while maintaining student privacy.

The Sheriff’s Office plans to expand “Handle with Care” to additional school districts in the coming months.

For more information, visit the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office website or contact SheriffPIO@SuffolkCountyny.gov.