Principal's Letter- February 20, 2019

Dear Budlong Families,

A parent reported today that his daughter was approached by an unknown woman as she stood at the crosswalk at Washtenaw on Foster Ave. on her way to school yesterday. The woman asked our student if she liked dogs. We estimate the time was between 8 and 8:10am. Our student described the woman as in her mid-fifties, having tan wrinkled skin, and wearing a black hooded coat and boots; her height is estimated to be about 5’ 6”.

The student is safe, and was not physically harmed. Teachers are talking with students today about general safe practices for walking to and from school:

• Walk in groups. There is safety in numbers.
  
• Avoid listening to loud music and looking down at your phone. Make sure you are aware of your surroundings.
  
• Avoid alleys and “cutting” through yards. Stay on main streets.
  
• Run to the nearest public place and call 911 if you feel unsafe.

Please talk with your students about stranger danger, and remind them that if they see anything suspicious, to immediately seek out a trusted adult.

We are in communication with the Chicago Police Department, and additional Budlong staff will be visible outside at both drop off and pickup starting immediately.
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The safety of our students and our community is our top priority. Any additional information I receive will be shared. Thank you for your attention to this matter.