On June 1st, a bear was sighted in Newport Hills, between Newport Heights and Jing Mei Elementary schools, which initially resulted in a lockout at both schools. A bear was also sighted in the Somerset area during the same week.
Please know district safety and security, local Department of Fish & Wildlife and BPD were immediately notified and continue to assist the district with this process.
As you know many of our schools are located near forested areas and greenbelts that are home to wildlife. It is common for the wildlife to become accustomed to humans when their homes are close to natural habitats. In cases such as these, it is not uncommon to see wildlife during the day. If you happen to see wildlife of this sort, get to a safe location and immediately call 911 and/or the local Department of Fish & Wildlife at (425) 775-1311.