Handle with Care is very simple: law enforcement officers at the scene of a crime or accident identify children who have been exposed to trauma and notify the child’s school.  There is no information being given except the child’s name, age and school.  The notice is sent in a confidential email and/or text notification to the child’s school before the start of the school day with these three words: “Handle With Care.”

To date, 1,294 schools have registered for the ‘Handle with Care’ program.

The premise of Handle With Care is to mitigate the negative effects of trauma on children.  In the event the child exhibits problematic behavior, the teacher has an early notification of possible exposure to trauma and may provide care and understanding versus discipline and punishment. When school interventions are not sufficient, school counselors or therapists can provide necessary services.

If you have questions related to The Handle with Care Program or the process for enrollment, please contact Danielle Perkins at KSP Headquarters, danielle.perkins@ky.gov , 502-782-1846.