Almaguin Highlands Secondary School in South River was forced to cancel its track and field event today after a bear sighting on school property.
"Unfortunately today's elementary track and field meet has been cancelled due to a bear being on school property and our concerns about the safety of students, staff and parents," says the school's Facebook page.
"We got a call from the principal around 8:45 a.m. telling us that the track and field event had been cancelled because a bear had been spotted on the track," a concerned parent told BayToday.
Here is the note to parents:
"Dear Parents and Guardians,
The Near North District School Board has made the decision to cancel the System Track and Field Meet planned for today at Almaguin Highlands Secondary School in South River. Unfortunately, a persistent bear has left the field unsafe for the over 200 athletes, parents, and staff expected to be in attendance. Please note that students who had been dropped off to catch a bus at a central meeting point will be brought to their school.
We apologize for any inconvenience this causes and we trust you'll understand that the safety of our students, staff and the public are of the highest priority when making these decisions."
