The West Islip School District sent a warning letter home to parents after a woman allegedly tried to lure two young children onto an unmarked minibus.

The incident happened just a few days into the start of the school year. The district said in its letter that a "soft-spoken" woman approached two elementary students as they walked on Higbie Lane, where there are several schools close by.

The woman encouraged the kids to get onto the unmarked bus, but they continued walking and then reported the incident.

Authorities are trying to track down the woman, who was in her 20s or 30s. She wore black pants, a blue top and a hat described as "similar to one worn by a police officer." The rear door of the yellow bus was painted black, with a white or light pink star or flower on it.

The district is now urging parents to have a stranger-danger discussion with their children. School officials say parents should never leave young children unattended at bus stops, and should encourage children to walk to and from school in groups. Parents should also urge children to be mindful of their surroundings, and to report any suspicious activity to a trusted adult.