Child Abuse and/or Neglect
Purpose
This policy relates to the requirement of mandated reporters to report suspected child abuse or neglect to the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS).
Duration
This policy is permanent but subject to review based on changes to state law.
Policy
Scope of This Policy and Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect
- By law, both school employees and school volunteers are considered mandated reporters and, as such, are legally required to report information about suspected child abuse or neglect to the Georgia Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) according to Georgia law (O.C.G.A. 19-7-5).
- Any school employee or school volunteer who suspects a student is being neglected or abused should immediately communicate this information to the school counselor and/or Campus Principal, and the suspected neglect/abuse will be reported to DFCS.
- If for any reason the school employee or school volunteer is unable to reach the school counselor and/or Campus Principal, the suspected child abuse or neglect should be reported directly to DFCS at 1-855-GA-CHILD.
- School employees and school volunteers who knowingly and willfully fail to report suspected cases of child abuse shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
- Any school employee or volunteer with questions regarding mandated reporting or anything contained in this policy should contact the Executive Director. See Mandated Reporters.
Potential Signs of Abuse/Neglect
Potential signs of abuse or neglect of a student may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Often left home alone overnight
- In the neighborhood for long periods without supervision
- Frequently hungry
- Dressed inadequately for the weather
- Frequently absent from school
- Bruised or has other marks of physical violence
- Withdrawn or overly aggressive
- Not receiving needed medical attention
Resources
Approval and Review
| Approved |
Effective |
Last Review |
Next Review |
|---|---|---|---|
| 06/16/15 | 07/01/15 | 06/2023 | 06/2026 |