If a child protective agency decides not to investigate, what must happen next?

• A. An administrative/personnel investigation must commence immediately
• B. The matter is closed with no further action
• C. The incident is referred to law enforcement
• D. The case is reviewed by the Educational Equity Compliance Office

Answer: (A)

When a report of child abuse or neglect is received and the child protective agency decides not to investigate, the district still has a responsibility to review the situation internally. An administrative or personnel investigation must begin immediately to determine whether district policies were followed, whether the mandated reporting requirements were met, and what, if any, protective or corrective actions are needed for students and staff.

This internal inquiry helps ensure student safety and accountability within the district, even if the external agency does not pursue an investigation. It examines how the incident was handled at the school or district level, looks for gaps in process or training, and can lead to staff development, policy adjustments, or disciplinary steps as appropriate.

Choosing alternative options would miss the district’s ongoing duty to protect students and to review internal practices, or would inappropriately shift focus to law enforcement or to a different office unless there are specific circumstances that require those paths.