When an employee reports suspected child abuse, which of the following is provided by the District?

• A. Defense against any actions or claims made as a result of the report.
• B. Financial penalties for the reporter.
• C. Confidentiality waivers for all information.
• D. No protections.

Answer: (A)

When an employee reports suspected child abuse, the district provides a defense against actions or claims that might arise from making that report. This protection is there to encourage reporting in good faith, so staff aren’t punished or sued for doing what the law and district policy require. It’s important to know that this defense applies when the report is made in good faith and follows mandated reporting procedures. The district’s protections do not come as financial penalties or blanket confidentiality waivers; confidentiality of the reporter and the information is maintained as required, and protections do not apply if the report is made with malice or fraud.