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The following message is from Rachel Stead, principal of Â鶹ӰÒô International Center and the Dual Language Program.

I am writing to let you know about a safety concern that occurred Wednesday morning as one of our students waited at their school bus stop on the corner of Spring and Quail streets. A blue car stopped at the intersection, and a group of males in the vehicle suggested that the student get in the car with them because they had candy.

Our student did the right thing and ignored the people. The bus arrived and the car proceeded through the intersection and drove away. The student went on to school and informed us of the incident the following day. We are encouraging the family to report the incident to the Â鶹ӰÒô Police Department.

The safety of all our students is a top priority. Please review the following safety tips with the entire family. These tips are intended to keep children safe while they are walking, biking or riding a bus to school in the morning and home in the afternoon, as well as anytime they are out in the community.

NEVER WALK ALONE – Walk with an adult, an older student or with a group.

DO NOT TALK TO STRANGERS – If approached by a stranger RUN immediately to the nearest store or crossing guard and tell an adult about it.

COME TO SCHOOL ON TIME – Sometimes being late is unavoidable. Parents and guardians, on those occasions please escort your children into school and be certain of their safe arrival.

WALK AGAINST TRAFFIC SO YOU CANNOT BE FOLLOWED – It takes time for a driver to turn around and it will give you a head start.

TELL SOMEONE IMMEDIATELY – If you see something, say something. Report any experience that made you feel uncomfortable or scared to your parent or guardian, a person at school or another trusted adult. 

Please review this information at home and emphasize the importance of avoiding strangers.  If you have any further questions please contact me at (518) 475-6600 or rstead@albany.k12.ny.us.