Assemblyman Philip Ramos (D-Central Islip) today announced he secured $40,000 in funding for the Brentwood School District. The money will be used to start a drug abuse and violence prevention program at Brentwood Freshman Center.

"Children need to learn early on about the consequences of drug abuse and violence," Ramos said. "If we can reach them early enough, they will be more likely to stay out of trouble when they are older."

"We are very appreciative of Assemblyman Ramos’ efforts," said Les Black, superintendent of the Brentwood School District. "The funding will certainly be put to good use."

The $40,000 comes from the federal Edward Byrne Memorial State and Local Law Enforcement Assistance Program and is administered by the state. It funds programs such as D.A.R.E. – which allows police officers to visit schools to talk to and develop relationships with children in order to educate them about drugs and violence.

As a father and former Suffolk County police officer, Ramos understands the importance of talking to children about the devastating impact of drugs on the community, and has visited local schools to discuss the dangers of drugs.

"It’s always been one of my main goals to make sure children are educated about the dangers of drugs and violence," Ramos said. "Parents are the best people to do that, but programs like the one to be started at Brentwood Freshman Center give students that vital information as well."

This is part of Assemblyman Ramos’ ongoing effort to protect and improve education in our community. Last year, working with parents, teachers, community leaders, and education professionals, he fought to restore the governor’s cuts to the Brentwood School District.