Who Is a Mandated Reporter?

Under CANRA (Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Act), all school employees are mandated reporters, including:

• Teachers
• Counselors
• Administrators (deans, principals)
• Classified staff
• Coaches and activity advisors

What Must Be Reported?

You must report when you have reasonable suspicion of:

• Physical abuse — Non-accidental physical injury
• Sexual abuse — Any sexual act with a minor
• Emotional abuse — Willful cruelty or unjustifiable punishment
• Neglect — Failure to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision
• Willful harm or endangerment — Placing a child in danger

"Reasonable suspicion" means that a reasonable person in your position would suspect abuse. You do NOT need proof.

How to Report

Step 1: Immediate Telephone Report

• Call the county Child Protective Services (CPS) hotline or law enforcement immediately (or as soon as practically possible)
• Provide: Child's name, age, address; nature of the suspected abuse; your name and role (mandated reporters must identify themselves)

Step 2: Written Report Within 36 Hours

• Complete a SS 8572 form (Suspected Child Abuse Report)
• Submit to the agency you called
• Keep a copy for your records (stored securely)

Legal Protections and Consequences

Protections for Reporters

• Immunity — Mandated reporters acting in good faith are immune from civil and criminal liability
• Confidentiality — Your identity as the reporter is kept confidential

Consequences for Failure to Report

• Misdemeanor offense
• Up to 6 months in jail and/or a $1,000 fine
• Civil liability for damages caused by failure to report

Important Reminders

1. You are reporting suspicion, not proving abuse — The investigation is CPS/law enforcement's job
2. Do NOT investigate on your own — Don't interview the child beyond the initial disclosure
3. Do NOT notify the parent if the parent is the suspected abuser — This could endanger the child
4. Do NOT promise the child you won't tell — Explain that you care about their safety and need to talk to someone who can help
5. Document your observations — But do NOT include them in the student's education record