Concord’s Interim School Superintendent Warns Families To Stay Safe After Strangers Approach Students

CONCORD, NH — SAU 8’s interim school superintendent is asking parents and students to take precautions after a few reports of strangers approaching or following students near schools and bus stops.

Timothy Herbert, who took over the position in August, issued an alert to parents on Sunday night, making families aware of the incidents. Concord police issued an alert on Friday afternoon, asking for assistance identifying one person of interest. Herbert said the incidents have been shared with police.

As a precaution, he added, police “will be increasing their presence around the schools during arrival and dismissal times.” Herbert also asked families to review safety tips with their kids.

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Those tips include:

Leave Immediately: If approached by a stranger, don’t engage — go to a safe place like home, school, or a public area.

Make Noise: Teach kids to yell clearly: “Help! I don’t know you!” to draw attention.

Find a Safe Adult: Seek help from a trusted adult (teacher, officer, bus driver, etc.) and explain the situation.

Call for Help: If they have a cellphone, call 911 or a trusted contact right away.

Don’t Engage: Remind them not to accept anything or go with someone they don’t know, regardless of what’s said.

Report It: Once safe, they should tell a trusted adult what happened, including details about the person and location.

“Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our students safe,” Herbert said. “By working together and staying alert, we can help ensure every child feels secure on their way to and from school. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to your school’s principal or the superintendent’s Office.”

Phone numbers for school officials can be found online, linked here. Call 603-225-8600 to reach the police department.

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