SUFFOLK SHERIFF, CENTRAL ISLIP ANNOUNCE ‘HANDLE WITH CARE’ PARTNERSHIP

February 19, 2026

SUFFOLK SHERIFF, CENTRAL ISLIP ANNOUNCE, ‘HANDLE WITH CARE’ PARTNERSHIP

Sheriff’s Office expands Handle With Care Program to help faculty support students exposed to traumatic events outside of school

(CENTRAL ISLIP, NY) Today, Suffolk County Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr. announced the expansion of the Sheriff’s Office’s “Handle With Care” initiative to the Central Islip Union Free School District.   The program was first piloted with the Huntington School District in September 2025 is designed to ensure schools are discreetly notified when a child may have been exposed to a traumatic, law enforcement involved incident outside of school.

Through this partnership, the Sheriff’s Office will notify designated school officials whenever a child is present at the scene of an incident. No details of the event will be shared, only the address and the phrase, “Handle With Care.” This discreet notification allows school personnel to be aware that a student may need extra patience, understanding, or support that day.  Once notified, educators can respond appropriately, from simple classroom accommodations such as flexibility with assignments or testing, to connecting families with additional support services when needed.

“The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office is proud to expand this program to another school district and partner with the Central Islip School District.  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. My hope is that we can continue to expand it across Suffolk County, building stronger connections between law enforcement and schools and most importantly ensuring that children are supported with care,” said Sheriff Errol D. Toulon, Jr.

"Our school district is extremely fortunate to have this opportunity to partner with the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office to implement the department's 'Handle With Care' initiative," Central Islip Superintendent of Schools Dr. Sharon A. Dungee said. "Sheriff Errol Toulon has established an important and positive presence in our secondary schools to connect with students through his 'Student Ambassador Program; now," Dr. Dungee continued, "we wholeheartedly embrace Dr. Toulon's 'Handle With Care' program which will provide school officials with additional insight during instances when students may need a little extra understanding and guidance as they navigate their school day. This will be accomplished in an appropriately discreet manner, and it is these students who will be the beneficiaries of this meritorious initiative," Dr. Dungee added. "We are very grateful to participate in Sheriff Toulon's 'Handle With Care' program."

The Sheriff’s Office maintains a strong partnership with the Central Islip School District, which also serves as the flagship district for the Sheriff’s Office Student Ambassador Program. The goal of this collaboration is to further expand the Sheriff’s Office’s outreach, assistance, and trust within the community.

The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office regularly interacts with children during civil actions, warrant service, traffic stops, and community events. These interactions can be stressful for young people and may affect their behavior or academic performance. The “Handle With Care” program ensures schools are aware, without sharing sensitive details, so educators can respond with care and compassion. 

The Sheriff’s Office plans to expand the “Handle With Care” program to additional school districts in the coming months. For more information on this program or the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office please visit www.suffolksheriff.com or email SheriffPIO@SuffolkCountyny.gov