Reporting Suspected Child Abuse

Reporting Suspected Child Abuse:

Code of Virginia requires all school employees to report all suspicions of child abuse and neglect to the Department of Social Services, Child Protective Services Division. Failure to report suspected incidents is a misdemeanor that could result in a fine and disciplinary action by the Department of Personnel Services, up to and including termination of employment.  

Any staff member that suspects that a child is being abused or neglected is to make a report to the principal and/or guidance counselor. The staff member who first became aware of the situation is also responsible for notifying CPS, but can do so with the support and assistance of the Guidance Counselor if so desired.

 It is not the responsibility of school employees to make judgement calls relative to child abuse and neglect but to report all incidents where abuse or neglect is a possibility. School employees are protected from being sued when reports of child abuse and neglect are made in good faith.