A message to Pitman residents

Dear Families, As some of you may be aware, another allegation was made regarding a second incident involving a child in Pitman and a motorist. While there are important differences in the details with the incident from last week, both incidents raise concerns and emphasize the need for all of us to monitor student safety. These are the details as I understand them: The alleged incident took place... near Memorial School a bit around 5 pm yesterday; a 5th grade boy was asked by a driver if he needed a ride. The child said no, and the driver was said to have sped off. The child is safe.

The vehicle is described as a red 1995 Jeep with a lift in the rear of the vehicle (different vehicle description than last week). The driver was described as a young male in his early 20's (different from the description of the driver from last week). The driver and car described by the child in the incident was involved in a minor traffic accident uptown shortly after the child reported his story to his parents and the police. As such, Pitman police detained the driver for questioning regarding the alleged incident with the child. The police investigation of this individual is continuing. I am awaiting additional information and guidance from the police chief. In the meantime, the chief has assured me of continued and enhanced police presence in/around the schools, especially at key times during the day.

Once again, I have asked all staff members to continue the vigilance and proactive measures that were put into place last week. As you can imagine, a second alleged incident within a week has many families on edge. We will continue to counsel students to travel in groups coming to/from school and while they are walking through town. Staff members will step up visibility during pick up/drop off times, and will continue to exercise extreme vigilance during outdoor activities such as recess, outdoor PE classes, and/or walking field trips through town. In the aftermath of last week's incident, the police chief and I had discussed bringing police officers into the schools to present information to students about staying safe. Building principals are working on getting details finalized so that these presentations are scheduled as soon as possible. As with the alleged incident from last week, I would encourage you to arm your child with information and guidance that will help them to keep themselves safe. Reassure them that many people are looking out for them and are working very hard to protect them. Also, let them know that police know the person who was involved in this latest incident, and are continuing to investigate. Encourage them to share their concerns and questions with you, or with a teacher or counselor at school. Please feel free to contact me or your building principal if you have any questions. Thank you for your cooperation.

Sincerely, Dr. Patrick McAleer
Superintendent Pitman Public Schools