Recently in New Zealand, we have become more aware of rehabilitating people from prison back into the community. There is an official process that must be undertaken so people in the community concerned are informed of the situation. This means that they can both be supportive and stay safe.

The Department of Corrections have contacted the school and they have confirmed that they are rehabilitating an offender into the general South Dunedin area. This area is not in immediate vicinity of the school. The offender is subject to GPS Monitoring managed by the Department of Corrections and is prevented from entering specific areas. Because of GPS monitoring their whereabouts is recorded at all times.

In considering the issue, it is timely to remind everyone of our processes to ensure the safety of everyone.

It is also a reminder to all of us and our school whanau to review our safety practices with our family members. We want to be sure that:

• Our children are clear about safe practices walking or scootering to and from school

• Parents know which way children are walking to and from school; walking in pairs or groups is safer; children are able to be easily seen

• Children know what time parents and caregivers will drop them off to school and collect them; it is important that children are not dropped off too early as there may not be anyone here to supervise

• Children know who’s collecting them if it’s not you the parent or caregiver

• Children know not to get into cars or talk to strangers

This is also a good time for you to make sure we have your current contact details; emergency contacts; adults permitted to collect your child and notify us of any other relevant changes

I know that for many of us this might be worrying. If you have any thing that you want to discuss about this please feel free to contact me.

Because we are so great at looking after each other and looking out for each other we will continue to do this in our very community minded way.

If you require any further information you can contact the Department of Corrections ph 470 3160.

Tony Hunter

Principal