This school year, the district appointed Byron McCray as director of school safety. McCray is responsible for overseeing peace officers, investigators, school security and training, working in close collaboration with district and school administrators to further develop appropriate procedures and protocols to provide a safe and secure school environment.

He joined West Islip after many years in public service and law enforcement, including serving as a supervisor at Brentwood School District, a New York State Department of Criminal Justice and Homeland Security instructor, a sergeant and officer in charge of training as well as an academy instructor for the New York Racing Association, and regional director of operations and community relations for criminal justice agency NYC TASC.

A native of Brooklyn now residing in Bay Shore, McCray was educated at John Jay College, FEMA Emergency Management Institute and Pace Law School, and also attended the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center, Rockland County Police Academy and SUNY Delhi Police Academy for law enforcement training and professional development.

“I have a strong interest in school safety, community relations, transparency in law enforcement and the development of programs that focus on community engagement and interaction,” said McCray. “I believe that this coupled with my extensive experience and proven leadership abilities will serve as a vital resource to the West Islip School District for years to come.”