Embedded Files
Risk Assessments
Risk Assessments
Student safety is a priority.
Student safety is a priority.
When a student makes statements or demonstrates behaviors that indicate a potential risk of harm to themselves or others, trained school personnel may conduct a risk assessment to determine the level of concern and identify appropriate next steps.
Risk assessments may include speaking with the student, gathering relevant information from staff or others, contacting a parent/guardian, and developing a safety or support plan when appropriate. Depending on the level of concern, families may also be encouraged or required to seek additional evaluation or support from a qualified mental health professional.
A school-based risk assessment is intended to help determine immediate safety needs and appropriate supports. **It is not a mental health diagnosis or a substitute for a comprehensive evaluation by a licensed mental health provider.**
If there is an immediate concern for a student's safety, school personnel will take appropriate steps to protect the student and others and will contact parents/guardians and/or emergency services as necessary.
When Might a Risk Assessment Be Conducted?
When Might a Risk Assessment Be Conducted?
A risk assessment may be conducted when school personnel become aware of information that raises concern about a student's safety or the safety of others. Examples may include:
Statements about suicide, wanting to die, or not wanting to be alive
Concerns about self-harm or self-injurious behavior
Threats or statements about harming another person
Concerning written work, drawings, social media posts, messages, or other communications
Significant changes in behavior accompanied by safety concerns
Information reported by another student, parent/guardian, staff member, or community member that indicates a possible safety concern
Not every concerning statement or behavior indicates that a student is in immediate danger. The purpose of the assessment is to gather information, evaluate the level of concern, and determine what steps may be needed to support the student's safety.
Students are encouraged to tell a trusted adult whenever they are concerned about themselves or someone else. It is always appropriate to speak up about a safety concern.
Mandated Reporting
Mandated Reporting
South Carolina law requires that certain professionals report known or suspected cases of child abuse or neglect, because they have unique opportunities to observe and interact with children.
Who makes a report?
Who makes a report?
Anyone with concerns about abuse and/or neglect of a minor.
As education professionals, we are all considered mandated reporters.
When to report?
When to report?
Mandated reporters must report abuse or neglect when, in their professional capacity, they receive information giving them reason to believe that a child’s physical or mental health has been, or may be, adversely affected by abuse or neglect. A decision to report must be based upon a reasonable belief that a child has been, or may be, abused or neglected. Thus, mandatory reporters need not have conclusive proof that a child has been abused or neglected prior to reporting abuse or neglect to the proper authorities.
A person who is required to report and fails to do so is guilty of a misdemeanor. Upon conviction, he or she may be fined up to $500 or imprisoned up to six months, or both.
How to report?
How to report?
To report suspected child abuse or neglect, contact the SCDSS 24-hour, toll-free hotline at 1-888-CARE4US or 1-888-227-3487. This hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Intake staff will assist the person making the report and assess the information provided to determine if an investigation is necessary. Or, in instances that are not emergent, individuals may also visit the online reporting portal.
Contact 911 immediately if the situation is a life-threatening emergency. An emergency is a situation where a child appears to face an immediate risk of abuse or neglect that could result in death or serious harm.
Other resources?
Other resources?
Erin's Law
Erin's Law
Erin’s Law at Palmetto Scholars Academy
Erin’s Law at Palmetto Scholars Academy
At Palmetto Scholars Academy, we are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of every student. In accordance with South Carolina state law, we implement Erin’s Law, which requires public schools to provide age-appropriate instruction on sexual abuse and assault awareness and prevention.
South Carolina is one of nearly 40 states that have adopted Erin’s Law, named after Erin Merryn, a childhood sexual abuse survivor and national advocate for prevention education.
What Does Erin’s Law Require?
What Does Erin’s Law Require?
Under Erin’s Law, schools must provide instruction that:
Teaches students in grades PreK–12 age-appropriate ways to recognize sexual abuse and how to report it to a trusted adult.
Trains school personnel to identify and respond to signs of child sexual abuse.
Informs parents and guardians about the warning signs of abuse and offers resources to support affected children and their families.
These educational efforts are designed to empower students, support families, and equip our staff with the tools needed to respond appropriately and compassionately.
Helpful Links:
Helpful Links:
RESOURCES FOR PARENTS | RESOURCES FOR STUDENTS | FAQs
If you have specific questions about how Erin’s Law is implemented at Palmetto Scholars Academy, feel free to contact the School Counseling Department directly. We are here to support you and your child.
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