ASSISTANT Commissioner Dwayne McDonald, Officer in Charge, Surrey RCMP, and Dr. Jordan Tinney, Superintendent of Schools / CEO, Surrey School District. on Thursday issued this “letter to parents this summer”:
Dear Parents/Guardians
As we approach summer break the Surrey RCMP and Surrey Schools would like to update you on some of the programs and services available for youth and parents. During the 2017/2018 school year officers had the chance to visit every school in Surrey – from primary class visits, to career fairs in high schools, lunch-time and after school sports programs. Connecting with your children is the highlight of our work.
This year the Surrey Gang Enforcement Team (SGET) launched a new presentation on the dangers of drugs and gangs called Shattering the Image. This presentation speaks to the current gang landscape in Surrey and is tailored to specific audiences: elementary or high-school students, educators and parents. This program has been well received in our schools and will be continued for the next school year.
We know these are concerning topics. Understanding the warning signs that your child may be heading down the wrong path early on is key. The Surrey RCMP Parent Helpline (604-599-7800) is available to families all year, and connects parents with specialized support from Surrey RCMP youth officers and counsellors. We urge you to reach out if you have questions or concerns. Some warning signs you should look for include:
- Sudden changes in behaviour, withdrawal from family
- Multiple cell phones (used for dial-a-doping)
- Large amount of cash in smaller denominations
- Secretive about activities or friendships
Above all, being invested and involved in your child’s life is of the utmost importance. Know their friends, be a positive role model, and fill their time with activities. The City of Surrey has many recreational programs over the summer that can help keep all ages busy through the summer months.
It has been our privilege getting to know your children this year. Our School Liaison Officers handed out high-fives
 during 1,200 Hi-5 visits to schools, and close to 300 Code Blue and Mini Blue sports sessions at elementary and secondary schools. We continue to support an increasing number of at-risk youth through the Surrey Wrap Program.
Just as your work as parents does not end with the school year, nor does ours. Our Community Engagement Teams will be out all summer in order to continue to build on the connections made with youth during the school year. You’ll find the Surrey RCMP at upcoming events like Surrey Canada Day, Canada Cup International Field Hockey at Tamanawis Park on July 15th, as well as local community festivals and parks throughout the summer.
Wishing you and your family a safe and enjoyable summer.