Port Jefferson School District Partners with Stony Brook’s CARE Initiative

The Port Jefferson School District is one of the seven school districts partnering with Stony Brook Children’s Hospital in the implementation of the CARE Initiative (Comprehensive Assistance, Resources, and Education), a program designed to support the health and well-being of students throughout Suffolk County.

Developed in response to the growing healthcare needs of children and adolescents, particularly in the areas of mental health and wellness, the CARE Initiative provides schools with direct access to a network of pediatric specialists. Through this partnership, Port Jefferson students and families can connect with experts in psychiatry, neurology, psychology, developmental pediatrics, and social work, ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to care.

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The CARE Initiative strengthens collaboration between schools and healthcare providers, helping to reduce barriers to care and improve access to the extensive resources available through Stony Brook Medicine. Whether a student is experiencing an urgent mental health concern or managing ongoing developmental or medical challenges, CARE offers timely support, guidance, and connections to appropriate services.

“This partnership enhances our ability to support the whole child,” said Jessica Schmettan, Superintendent of Schools. “By working closely with Stony Brook Children’s Hospital, we are ensuring that our students and families have access to high-quality care and the resources they need to succeed both in and out of the classroom.”

Community members are encouraged to learn more about the CARE Initiative by tuning into Stony Brook’s “Healthcast” podcast, which highlights the program’s mission and impact.

Listen here:
https://youtu.be/vjkGXb0RhIM?si=5_UiPsO2FyFIrxai

For more information about the Port Jefferson School District and its students' numerous achievements, please visit the district’s website at https://www.portjeffschools.org and follow its Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/PortJeffSchools.