Safety, law & ethicsNew teachersFuture teachers

You're a mandated reporter. Know what that means.

If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, you're legally required to report it — and the details matter.

Written with AI — this one isn’t Tammy. The Field Guide covers ground her videos don’t, and keeps to what’s well established. It doesn’t know your students, and nothing here overrides your school’s policy or your state’s law. · 1 min read

What to do

In every US state, teachers are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse and neglect. The standard is reasonable suspicion, not proof.
In many states, telling your principal or counselor doesn't satisfy your own duty — you may have to report to child protective services or law enforcement yourself. Learn your state's rule and your district's procedure now.
Don't investigate. Asking leading questions or gathering evidence isn't your job, and it can damage a later investigation.
If a student discloses something, stay calm, listen, and write down what they said in their own words as soon as you can.
Never promise to keep a secret. Tell the student you care about them and that you may need to tell people whose job is to help keep them safe.

Why it works

These situations are uncommon, but most teachers meet one eventually — usually without warning. Knowing the procedure in advance means that in the moment you can focus on the child in front of you instead of wondering what you're allowed to do.

Try this tomorrow

This week, find your state's child abuse reporting line and your district's written procedure. Save the number in your phone.

Watch out

Delay is the danger. Reporting laws usually require prompt action, and “I wasn't sure” or “I told someone else” may not protect you — or the child.

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