Which entity must also receive a report when the abuse occurs at early education centers or preschools?

• A. The school principal
• B. The child's non-custodial parent
• C. Department of Social Services (DSS)
• D. The Department of Commerce

Answer: (C)

When abuse or neglect is suspected in a preschool or early education setting, the person who is legally required to report must make the report to the designated child welfare authority so the situation can be investigated and the child protected. In this context, that designated agency is the Department of Social Services, which houses Child Protective Services. Reporting to DSS ensures a formal investigation and coordination of services to safeguard the child, rather than relying on informal channels or people who aren’t the official recipients of such reports. The school principal is an administrator who may be involved in the process, but not the designated recipient for formal child welfare reporting. The non-custodial parent and the Department of Commerce have no role in receiving these mandated reports.