CHILD ABUSE
Child Abuse , Neglect , and Sexual Assault
All school employees , including teachers , superintendents , principals , coaches of intramural or interscholastic athletics , paraprofessionals , and other professional school staff including guidance counselors , social workers , psychologists , and licensed nurses are obligated by law ( C . G . S . 17a-101 ) to report suspected child abuse , neglect , or if a child is placed in imminent danger of serious harm or sexual assault by a school employee to the Connecticut State Department of Children and Families Services . Specific procedures governing the reporting of abuse and neglect are in effect , and staff receive yearly training in their use .
Reporting of child abuse , neglect , and sexual assault by a school employee is a responsibility which is taken seriously . If there is any doubt about reporting suspected abuse , neglect , or a sexual assault a report will be made . The school will work with the parents and appropriate social agencies in all cases .
Child abuse is defined as any physical injury inflicted by other than accidental means or injuries , which are not in keeping with the explanation given for their cause . Improper treatment such as malnutrition , sexual molestation , deprivation of necessities , emotional abuse , cruel punishment , or neglect are also considered child abuse .
The Board of Education will post in each school the telephone number of the Department of Children and Families ’ child abuse hotline , Careline , and the Internet web address that provides information about the Careline in a conspicuous location frequented by students . Such posting shall be in various languages appropriate for the students enrolled in the school .
Refer to Policy # 5141.4 for more information
COMMUNITY RELATIONS 1110.1
Communications with the Public
Parent Involvement
Considerable experience and related evidence indicates that meaningful involvement of parents , guardians , and other care-givers in the schooling of children improves the quality of education significantly . The Board of Education believes that closer connections of parents and others responsible for the home care of the children with our schools can result in enhanced academic performance , improved behavior , and reduced absenteeism .
Therefore , all parents , guardians , and care-givers of students , enrolled in our school district are encouraged to take an active role in the education of their children .
Further , the Board of Education believes that the professional staff must take whatever steps are necessary to facilitate a broad variety of opportunities for parents to connect frequently with the schools in which their children are enrolled , and with the overall system . These steps should include the following :
• Parenting skills should be promoted and supported .
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