Report of Bear(s) in the vicinity of Georgia Park

We have had several reports of bear sightings around Georgia Park, and just recently a Mom and her cubs.  We are asking students/visitors/staff to be extra cautious and alert when outside around the school.  Please read below for Bear Aware protocols:

Be Bear Aware:  Most bears prefer to avoid contact with humans, and any bear you do see is probably just as frightened as you are.  Remain as composed as possible and follow these simple guidelines:

• Do not attempt to get close to it, taunt it or try to intervene in any way.
• Travel in groups and make lots of noise by talking or rattling something like keys.
• Pay attention to your surroundings.  Do not concentrate on your phone.
• If you see a bear, back away slowly, preferably in the direction you came.  DO NOT TURN YOUR BACK TOWARDS IT!  Walk, don’t run, and keep your eye on the bear so you can see how it will react. In most cases, the bear will flee.