Navigating CPS Issues Within SchoolsLyndon B. Johnson Elementary 2012-2013

What is Abuse and Neglect? Child abuse is an act or omission that endangers or impairs a childs physical, mental, or emotional health and development.

Types of Abuse/NeglectABUSE:Physical AbuseSexual AbuseEmotional AbuseNEGLECT:Physical NeglectMedical NeglectNeglectful SupervisionAbandonmentRefusal to Accept Parental Responsibility

CPS Responsibilities:Conduct civil investigations of reported child abuse and neglect.Protect children from abuse and neglect.Promote the safety, integrity, and stability of families.Provide permanent placements for children who cannot safely remain with their own families.

Issues Challenging FamiliesPoverty (SB 758)Limited Parenting KnowledgeMental Health IssuesSubstance AbuseFamily Violence

Parental Substance AbuseMajor Factor in Child Welfare CasesNationally 50-90% of all cases.Parental substance abuse long standing problem >5 years.Locally around 70% of cases involving removals.

Domestic Violence

50% Co-OccurranceHearing a Violent EventDirect Involvement (Eyewitness, Intervener, Used in Violent Episode)Experience Aftermath of Violent EpisodeImpacted behaviorally, cognitively, and long-term.

Schools Know EverythingSignificant events at home.Parent involvement.Observations in formal and informal settings.Extracurricular activities.Behavior patterns.Special needs.

Responding to Abuse

Do not promise you will keep a secret.Do not promise protection you cannot deliver.Do not talk bad about the perpetrator.If you have an outcry it is important to listen and not cut the childs disclosure short.

Someone Else Will Report It

Statistically 1/3 report suspected abuse.TFC mandates anyone who suspects to report.Cannot delegate (TFC 261.101)

Failure To Report

Failure to report suspected abuse is a Class B misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment for up to 180 days and/or a fine of up to $2000. In addition, any licenses, certifications or other credentials can be revoked.

Reporting in School SettingsThe person who heard the outcry or has the most knowledge of what is happening with the child should make the report. Additional individuals may be listed as collateral sources in the report. Alternative numbers are very helpful in planning investigation.

Will Report Be Investigated?Report must meet statutory definitions and/or indicate reason to believe child is or will be harmed. Legislation mandates screening cases and establishing a flexible response system to focus on serious cases.

1-800-252-5400https://www.txabusehotline.org

FERPA Information in student records at an educational institution shall be made available on the request of a person conducting a child abuse investigation required by Subchapter D, Chapter 261, Family Code.Texas Government Code Section 552.114 (b) (3)

Thank you

L.Ortiz/Counselor

*Discuss that investigations are based on legal definitions and the burden of proof is preponderance of the evidence.*Study estimated 10 million teens exposed to parental violence each year. Adults asked 1 in 8 (12.6 %) recalled events. Father 50%, Mother 19%, Both hitting 31%.*Discuss importance of collateral information and how the more information the better.*You may observe or hear something that causes you to suspect abuse or neglect. Dont assume someone else will make a report. When you report abuse or neglect you are taking steps in rebuilding a family and ending a childs suffering.