Excitement filled the air at Forest Lake Elementary during morning arrival on the first day of school this year. Nassau County Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder stopped by to welcome students, parents, and faculty back to school highlighting the continued strong partnership between Nassau County Police Department (NCPD) and school districts.

Students were given drawstring backpacks, plush toys, bouncy balls, and frisbees to help foster a great relationship in the community.  Additionally, the NCPD is sharing their PREVENT and PREPARE programs to counter targeted violence. This year’s focus will expand to include ways in which the public can help NCPD avert violence through the recognition and reporting of concerning behavior.  

The story was featured on News 12 later that evening which you can view here.