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The list that follows contains some common indicators of abuse or maltreatment. This list is not all-inclusive, and some abused or maltreated children may not show any of these symptoms. With respect to oral or written statements indicating sexual abuse, where there are no physical symptoms apparent, when reported by a parent or the victim child, such oral or written statements shall be deemed a basis to suspect and report to the Central Register for Child Abuse and Maltreatment, as well as the County Department of Child Protective Services. Where such information is received as hearsay from other sources, the duty to report shall be based upon corroborative evidence and/or requires immediate consultation with the School Attorney.

Indicators of Physical Abuse can include:

• Injuries to the eyes or both sides of the head or body (accidental injuries typically only affect one side of the body);

• Frequently appearing injuries such as bruises, cuts and/or burns, especially if the child is unable to provide an adequate explanation of the cause. These may appear in distinctive patterns such as grab marks, human bite marks, cigarette burns or impressions of other instruments;

• Destructive, aggressive or disruptive behavior;

• Passive, withdrawn or emotionless behavior; and

• Fear of going home or fear of parent(s).

Indicators of Sexual Abuse can include:

• Symptoms of sexually transmitted diseases;

• Injury to genital area;

• Difficulty and/or pain when sitting or walking;

• Sexually suggestive, inappropriate or promiscuous behavior or verbalization;

• Expressing age-inappropriate knowledge of sexual relations; and

• Sexual victimization of other children.

Indicators of Maltreatment can include:

• Obvious malnourishment, listlessness or fatigue;

• Stealing or begging for food;

• Lack of personal care – poor personal hygiene, torn and/or dirty clothes;

• Untreated need for glasses, dental care or other medical attention;

• Frequent absence from or tardiness to school; and

• Child inappropriately left unattended or without supervision.

Indicators of Educational Neglect can include:

• Excessive unexcused absences;

• Reasonable cause to suspect that the parent is aware or should be aware of the excessive absenteeism;

• That the parent has contributed to the problem or is failing to take steps to effectively address the problem; and

• Reasonable cause to suspect educational impairment or harm to the child or imminent danger of such impairment or harm.

Adopted date: November 19, 2018