The management of Beis Yaakov Merkaz on Rambam Street in Bnei Brak, has sent a warning letter to parents of students suggesting they do not permit the little one to come to school on their own. They speak of mapping out a route that is used daily, and preferably, not letting the child walk along but in a group or at least one or two others, warning at times there are dangerous passersby.

“Girls must be taught that under no circumstance should that respond to an unfamiliar person, man or woman, not to respond and never to accompany them” due to the presence of so many strangers in proximity of the school.

“Girls under nine asking assistance crossing streets should only turn to woman or girls” the yeshiva adds, instructing “If a girl feels any threat/danger whatsoever she should begin running and/or should for help”.

Parents are urged to address this with girls as well as practice to ensure they understand how to respond should the need arise. Families are reminded to teach girls if they are home alone, not to permit unfamiliar persons in without instruction from parents.

The school urges to instruct children that they must report any incident to their parents without hesitation as parents and school officials wish to hear and assist.

The girls are also instructed not to remain in the school area after school when workers are present but to leave and head home after school. Parents are also instructed to explain to girls that while they are taught about acts of chessed, at this stage of their lives this does not apply to strangers.

The school explains that in light of situations that have occurred they feel compelled to send such a letter to alert parents and children alike of the dangers.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)