Mandatory Reporting by Skylar Miller https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e Skylar Miller EDG 6305 Legal and Ethical Principles en-us 2023-09-23 13:39:59 UTC 2023-10-08 23:52:14 UTC hello@padlet.com http://englishbookgeorgia.com/blogebg/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/Report.jpg Professional Perspective smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737373002 As a teacher, my professional perspective is grounded in the belief that education is not only about imparting knowledge but also about fostering a safe ans supportive environment for students to thrive. The Legal Guide I’ve developed is focused on the critical area of Mandatory Reporting in Education. The guide is intended for educators, school administrators, and educational professionals who play a role in safeguarding the well-being of students. Beyond legal compliance, educators can play a proactive role in preventing child abuse with providing timely intervention. ]]> 2023-10-08 22:51:09 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737373002 Summary of Mandatory Reporting smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737374044 Mandatory Reporting is crucial for ensuring the safety and well-being of students. In my field, as a Teacher, educators play an important role in identifying and reporting suspected cases of child abuse or neglect. Compliance with mandatory reporting laws not only fulfills an educator's legal obligations but, also upholds the ethical responsibilities of educators to prioritize student safety.


An emerging issue related to Mandatory Reporting that educators should closely monitor is the integration of virtual platforms within education. With the increase of online interactions, educators watch for signs of abuse or neglect in virtual spaces. As education becomes more technologically advanced, staying attuned to Mandatory Reporting laws is crucial to effectively safeguard students. 



]]> 2023-10-08 22:54:00 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737374044 Professional Association smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737374559
This article discusses the ethical and legal complications of confidentiality and mandatory reporting in the context of school counseling, specifically when working with minors. It highlights the importances of building meaningful relationships with students and parents and it touches on the challenges school counselors face in balancing confidentiality with others’ right to know. This document stresses the need for counselors to make informed decisions while considering the ethical codes and special circumstances and needs of each student.

https://www.counseling.org/docs/default-source/ethics/ethics-columns/ethics_october-2017_minor-privacy.pdf?sfvrsn=a25522c_6

Carlson, N. (2017, October). To tell or not to tell: The fine line between minors’ privacy and others’ right to know. Counseling Today. https://www.counseling.org/docs/default-source/ethics/ethics-columns/ethics_october-2017_minor-privacy.pdf?sfvrsn=a25522c_6

 




]]> 2023-10-08 22:55:23 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737374559 Current News Articles smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737375274 This study highlights Mandatory Reporting challenges faced in not only the United States but also in Sweden. Sweden has an increasing number of child abuse and neglect reports, causing a workload for schools and children welfare services. Schools play a vital role in safeguarding children, but encounter difficulties such as unclear reporting situations, and a balance between providing support and ensuring protection. The text emphasizes the significance of promoting collaboration between schools and child protection services to guarantee the safety and well-being of children. 
  • Duty to report is required by individual organizations, and clear procedures are mandated by law.
  • School staff struggle with organizational expectations and their personal and professional stances. 
  • Although there is confirmed backing for mandatory reporting, there is uncertainty about whether it should be viewed as protection-focused or support-focused.

https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0760/11/7/273

 Dahlberg, H., Khoo, E., & Skoog, V. (2022). Making sense of mandatory reporting: A qualitative study of reporting practices from the perspectives of schools and child welfare services in Sweden. Social Sciences, 11(7), 273. https://doi.org/10.3390/socsci11070273
https://www.mdpi.com/2076-0760/11/7/273


 
]]> 2023-10-08 22:57:16 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737375274 Current News Articles smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737377377 The article emphasizes the legal obligations of specific stakeholders, such as teachers, to report suspected or confirmed child neglect and abuse. It discusses the importance of this duty in ensuring the well-being and safety of students, promoting a supportive system, and maintaining confidentiality. The article outlines responsibilities, including monitoring for signs of mistreatment, tracking injuries, and addressing attendance issues. It stresses the need for teachers to handle such matters with care, honesty, and discretion, explaining the reporting process to students while maintaining their privacy.
  • Mandatory reporting by educators aims to keep students safe and healthy. Reports trigger responses from safety and health authorities, leading to interventions in unsafe environments. 
  • Mandatory reporters monitor students for excessive emotions, which may indicate mistreatment. 
  • Educators track and notice frequent injuries, and observe student hygiene to identify signs of neglect. 
  • Educators communicate honestly with students about mandatory reporting and handle topics discreetly while prioritizing study privacy and creating a safe learning space. 
  • When reporting abuse or neglect to authorities, mandatory reporters have the option to report anonymously to protect their identity.

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/teacher-mandatory-reporting

Teachers as mandatory reporters: Their legal responsibility. indeed. (2023, February 4). https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/teacher-mandatory-reporting 
]]> 2023-10-08 23:02:42 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737377377 Constitutional Law smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737379063 U.S. Const. amend. XIV.

The Fourteenth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution is a fundamental legal principle that guarantees equal protection under the law for all individuals. While it does not specifically address the reporting of child abuse or neglect in educational institutions, it establishes the fundamental rights of children to receive equal protection and care. This amendment indirectly addresses the role of educational institutions in safeguarding the rights and safety of children, including the reporting of instances of child abuse or neglect.

https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/14th-amendment#:~:text=No%20State%20shall%20make%20or,equal%20protection%20of%20the%20laws

National Archives. (n.d.). 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution: Civil Rights (1868). National Archives.https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/14th-amendment#:~:text=No%20State%20shall%20make%20or,equal%20protection%20of%20the%20laws.]]> 2023-10-08 23:07:03 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737379063 Statutory Law smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737380046 Texas Family Code, Title 5 § 261.001 of 2017.https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.261.htm

Chapter 261 of the Texas Family Code is an essential statutory law that mandates the reporting of child abuse/neglect in the state. This law sets out the legal requirements for reporting cases of suspected child abuse or neglect. It clearly states whether individuals, including school employees, teachers, and administrators, have a legal duty to immediately report suspicious information to the appropriate authorities, such as the Child Protective Services (CPS) or regulators. Failure to report may result in legal penalties. This legislation ensures that schools take an active role in investigating and reporting cases of child abuse/neglect in order to protect the best interests of children.

https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.261.htm

Texas Legislature. 2023. Chapter 261. Family Code, Title 5. The Juvenile Justice Code. Section 261.001, et seq. Statutes of the State of Texas.
https://statutes.capitol.texas.gov/Docs/FA/htm/FA.261.htm

 
]]> 2023-10-08 23:09:30 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737380046 Judicial Law smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737380592 Texas Supreme Court Case - Texas Department of Family and Protective Services v. Dickens

The legal case of Texas Department of Family Protective Services v. United States. Dickens, a significant decision by the Texas Supreme Court, provides clarity on the responsibilities of school staff regarding the reporting of child abuse incidents. In this legal proceeding, the court affirmed that school personnel, including teachers and administrators, hold the designation of 'mandatory reporters' as per Texas regulations. Consequently, they bear a legal obligation to promptly report any suspected instances of child abuse or neglect. This case underscored the crucial role of school staff members in identifying and reporting child abuse or neglect cases, setting a legal precedent for their involvement in ensuring child safety.

https://caselaw.findlaw.com/tx-court-of-appeals/1219606.html

Texas Department of Family and Protective Services v. Dickens. (2008). FindLaw.https://caselaw.findlaw.com/tx-court-of-appeals/1219606.html ]]> 2023-10-08 23:10:58 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737380592 Administrative Law smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737381035 Texas Education Agency (TEA) Administrative Code

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) Administrative Code, specifically detailed in Title 19, Chapter 61, Subchapter EE, provides specific administrative regulations and guidelines concerning the reporting of child abuse and neglect within the Texas education system. This code depicts the procedures, responsibilities, and expectations of school personnel when addressing and reporting suspected cases of child abuse. It ensures compliance to the legal requirements outlined in Chapter 261 of the Texas Family Code. The TEA Administrative Code serves as a vital resource for educators, administrators, and school districts, aiding them in comprehending and fulfilling their legal obligations to safeguard and ensure the well-being of students within the educational system.

https://texreg.sos.state.tx.us/public/readtac$ext.TacPage?sl=R&app=9&p_dir=&p_rloc=&p_tloc=&p_ploc=&pg=1&p_tac=&ti=19&pt=2&ch=61&rl=1051

Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect, Including Trafficking of a Child, 19. Tex. Admin. Code § 61.1051 
 
]]> 2023-10-08 23:12:10 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737381035 Administrative Law smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737381577 Terrell ISD Terrell, Texas

The policy prioritizes increasing awareness among staff, students, and parents about child abuse, trafficking, and related issues, focusing on prevention methods and the identification of potential warning signs. It also emphasizes the importance of implementing age-appropriate, evidence-based antivictimization programs tailored to students. Additionally, the policy outlines the necessary steps a child who is a victim should take to seek assistance and intervention effectively. Lastly, it emphasizes the provision of information regarding the counseling options available to support students who may have been affected by these sensitive issues.

https://pol.tasb.org/PolicyOnline/PolicyDetails?key=760&code=FFG#localTabContent

Terrell ISD-Kaufman County. (2023, January 9). FFG — Student Welfare: Child Abuse and Neglect. Terrell ISD-Kaufman County Board Policy Manual. https://pol.tasb.org/PolicyOnline/PolicyDetails?key=760&code=FFG
]]> 2023-10-08 23:13:27 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737381577 Ethical Principle smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737382111
A.9. Serious and Foreseeable Harm to Self and Others 
e. Report to administration and/or appropriate authorities (e.g., law enforcement) when a student discloses a perpetrated or a perceived threat to another person’s physical or mental wellbeing. This threat may include but is not limited to verbal abuse, physical abuse, sexual abuse, dating violence, bullying or harassment. The school counselor follows applicable federal and state laws and school and district policy.

In the event of a student disclosing a possible threat, including forms of abuse or violence, the school counselor is obligated to promptly report the incident to the administration and appropriate authorities. This reporting aligns with federal and state laws, as well as district policies, adhering to mandatory reporting requirements.
 
https://www.schoolcounselor.org/getmedia/44f30280-ffe8-4b41-9ad8-f15909c3d164/EthicalStandards.pdf

American School Counselor Association. (2016). ASCA Ethical Standards for School Counselors. https://www.schoolcounselor.org/asca/media/asca/Ethics/EthicalStandards2016.pdf


]]> 2023-10-08 23:14:40 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737382111 Non-Law Source smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737382655 The text is a guide for Texas school employees on mandatory reporting, emphasizing their role in recognizing and reporting child abuse. It outlines legal obligations, procedures for reporting, and expectations after reporting, and stresses the importance of immediate action to ensure the safety and well-being of children.

https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/health-safety-discipline/educators-guide-2020-english.pdf

Texas Education Agency. (2020). Texas School Employee’s Guide to Reporting Suspected Abuse & Neglect. Retrieved from https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/health-safety-discipline/educators-guide-2020-english.pdf ]]> 2023-10-08 23:15:55 UTC https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737382655 Bulleted list of Recommendations smiller521 https://padlet.com/smiller521/kq9uf1kod46z6w0e/wish/2737382892
  • Establish clear reporting protocols within educational institutions, specifying the steps to be taken when abuse or neglect is suspected, and desinate responsible personnel.
  • Provide educators with the option to make reports anonymously without fear of retaliation.
  • Develop support systems within schools to assist educators in handling emotional challenges associated with reporting abuse or neglect. 
  • Cooperation between educational instituations and child protective services, guaranteering efficient communication and coordination in cases involving suspected abuse or neglect. 
  • Prioritize documentation of concerns, observations, and reporting actions to establish a transparent record of the decision-making process and expedite the investigative process.
  • Foster connections with the local community to promote understanding of mandatory reporting laws, urging collaboration of stakeholders to strengthen initiatives for child protection.


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