Many schools in Suffolk County are partnering with police and utilizing free apps to ensure the safety of students.

Scott Graviano, principal of Newfield High School in Selden, says they are constantly evolving their security, technology and procedures.

"We have a building safety team that meets more than once a year to go through our day-to-day procedures," Graviano says.

The Selden school installed lockdown buttons this year, as well as an enhanced camera system that links to police headquarters in the case of an emergency. That was made possible because of the SHARE program, which dozens of other schools also utilize.

"Everything you can do to reduce response time can make a difference saving lives," says Suffolk County Executive Steve Bellone.

Fifty-two school districts in Suffolk have also signed up for the RAVE app that alerts 911 about an emergency with the push of a button.

Suffolk County Police Commissioner Rodney Harrison says being proactive is key and that he won't let the department do any type of reactive policing.

The public also plays a big part since many of the threats surface on social media.

"We have so many informants in students, in parents, in teachers, any time we get the slightest hint of something on social media we investigate it thoroughly," Graviano says.

The work districts are doing to create a safe learning environment in which children can feel safe.

"My two boys feel comfortable too and that's bigger deal, is that they feel comfortable coming to school," says Debbie Ingraselino. "They should feel safe and secure, and they shouldn't be afraid coming to school."

Suffolk officials encourage any district not currently enrolled in any of the free programs to reach out and get signed up.