The teacher-student relationship is a special one where the adult has the responsibility to ensure that children receive appropriate supervision and care. Because of their sustained contact with children, school employees are in a position to identify when possible abuse/neglect exists. It is important then, to recognize that school personnel need to be aware of the signs and symptoms of abuse/neglect as well as specific reporting procedures. (3-26-02)
Reporting of Abuse, Abandonment, or Neglect.
- Any Moscow School District employee having reason to believe that a student has been abused, abandoned or neglected or who observes the student being subjected to conditions or circumstances which would reasonably result in abuse, abandonment or neglect shall report or cause to be reported within twenty-four (24) hours such conditions or circumstances to the proper law enforcement agency or Child Protection Services of the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. The employee shall also inform a building administrator, either before or after the report to law enforcement or Child Protection Services, and complete a Child Abuse/Neglect Reporting Form. (See Forms Section) This form will be kept on file for future reference and as documentation of the report. [IC 16-1605 (1)] (12-15-09)
- Failure to report as required in this section shall be a misdemeanor. [IC 16-1605 (4)] (12-15-09)