Adopted:         12/15/1986

Revised:          04/16/2012                                                                              454

School District of Prairie Farm

REPORTING CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT

The Prairie Farm School District is aware of the important role educators play in the referral of children who are suspected of being abused or neglected or threatened with abuse or neglect. As part of the District’s commitment in this area, the District desires to create an awareness of child abuse and neglect on the part of school personnel. Therefore, staff shall be made aware of information regarding child abuse and neglect legislation, Board policy, referral procedures, and indicators of abuse and neglect.

Child abuse and neglect is a complex phenomenon. Alleviating the problem will require understanding and cooperation on the part of all District staff having contact with children who may be at risk.

Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect

Any school employee having reasonable cause to suspect that a child seen in the course of professional duties, has been abused or neglected, or having reason to believe that a child has been threatened with abuse or neglect and that abuse or neglect will occur, shall make a report in accordance with established procedures.

No person making a good-faith report may be discharged from employment for doing so. Any person who in good faith makes such a report shall have immunity from any civil or criminal liability that may result from making a report on child abuse or neglect. Whoever willfully fails to file a report may be fined or imprisoned or both.

LEGAL REF.:            Sections 48.981(2) Wisconsin Statutes

                                    1995 WI Act 275

CROSS REF.:             454 Rule, Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Procedures