District 41 Issues 'Stranger Danger' Safety Warning to Parents, Students

UPDATED: Dec. 19, 8:50 a.m.

Parents with children in Glen Ellyn School District 41, and particularly Lincoln Elementary School, are being warned about a man in his 20s exhibiting “suspicious behavior” near the elementary school recently.

Late Tuesday afternoon, the district issued a message to the school community in regard to "stranger-danger safety." The district said reports have been made with the Glen Ellyn Police Department related to a man in his 20s who has been seen in the area of the school and acting suspiciously.

Officials from District 41 in the message said the police are investigating the incidents. Anyone who witnesses “suspicious or disturbing” behavior is asked to call 911 immediately.

The Glen Ellyn Police are aware of the prior reports that have been made and are handling those issues as they arise, said Deputy Chief Bill Holmer. 

Lincoln staff are also aware of the reports and are "exercising vigilance," the district said.

The police department has stepped up its presence at Glen Ellyn schools over the last week in response to the events in Newtown, CT, Holmer said. In response to that incident, the police department is creating an enviroment for the school community and parents to feel safe in.

While there have been reports made about the man in his 20s, the district said a report made Tuesday of a suspicious person loitering turned out to be a parent of a Lincoln Elementary student.

Parents are also being advised to tell their children to talk with a trusted adult or call 911 when something happens that makes them feel uncomfortable or appears to be out of the ordinary, such as being offered candy or rides, according to District 41. Teens should also be reminded to be cautious.

Following the TASK strategy is encouraged by District 41: 

• Talk with your child about strangers and safety, and about specific ploys that may be used by strangers. 
• Ask them what they heard you say, so you can correct any misunderstandings. 
• Show them how to walk safely and how to safely ask for help.
• Know who, when, and how to get help. Anytime you or your child sees or is aware of suspicious behavior, call 911 without hesitation.

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