RRPS sends letter about suspicious white van near three schools

Reports of a suspicious white van being spotted near three schools prompted a letter from Rio Rancho Public Schools being sent to help parents have conversations with their children about stranger safety.

The letter did not say when the van was spotted or why it is considered suspicious but said it had been seen “in the vicinity of Rio Rancho Elementary School, Lincoln Middle School, and Cleveland High School.”

The letter said there was no more information available and it is unclear if the “incidents are related.” The district took the opportunity to provide some safety tips for parents to share with their students.

• Defining a stranger: Explain to your child that most people are kind and helpful but there are a few individuals with harmful intentions.
• Acceptable interactions: Teach your child that it’s OK to respond politely when a stranger greets them or to pet someone’s dog while in the company of a trusted adult.
• Warning signs: Make it clear that a sign of danger is when someone asks them to go somewhere without informing their parents, teachers or babysitters.
• Vehicle safety: If an unfamiliar person attempts to speak to them from inside a car, instruct your child to maintain a safe distance, beyond arm’s reach. If someone insists they get into a car, emphasize the importance of shouting “NO!” and fleeing to a place with lots of people, like home or a friend’s house. Stress that they must promptly report the incident to a trusted adult and never enter a vehicle with a stranger. Some individuals might use deception, such as claiming a family emergency or a lost pet, to lure children. Advise your child not to go with anyone in such situations.
• Family passwords: Some families have secret passwords to ensure their safety and that they should use these passwords to confirm someone’s identity.
• Walking home: Encourage your child to always walk home with a friend or trusted companion and to always be aware of their surroundings. If they notice an unfamiliar person lurking nearby, prompt them to immediately inform a trusted adult.
• Reporting suspicious activity: Emphasize the importance of reporting any suspicious activity to a trusted adult.

“We hope that you find this information helpful in guiding your family’s discussions on stranger safety,” the letter said. “Our primary concern is the safety and well-being of your children. Always remember, if you see something, say something. Immediately report suspicious activity to the Rio Rancho Police Department. Call 911 if it is an emergency or 505-891-7226 for non-emergencies.”