Giffen safety update

The following message is from Giffen Memorial Elementary School Principal Jasmine Brown:

I am writing to let you know about a safety concern that occurred outside of our school on Thursday morning.

Several people, including a member of our staff, reported that while students were arriving for school, an adult male at the corner of South Pearl and Schuyler streets tried to lure students away by offering candy. Our students did the right thing, ignoring this person and continuing into the building.  

We notified the Albany Police Department immediately and officers responded to investigate. The police made an arrest and the individual was released following a court appearance later in the day. Police provided additional support at school during dismissal Thursday. 

The safety of all of 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 Principal Brown at (518) 475-6650.