Who is allowed to read or handle Suspected Child Abuse Reports?

• A. Only the reporter; no other individuals, including clerical staff, may be apprised of the reports.
• B. Any school staff member can access it.
• C. The principal and counselor only.
• D. Anyone in the district.

Answer: (A)

Confidentiality of Suspected Child Abuse Reports and who may access them. These reports involve sensitive information about a child and the identity of the person who reported. To protect the child, the reporter, and the integrity of any inquiry, access is kept highly restricted. Policies are designed so that only the person who initiates the report reads or handles its contents, minimizing unnecessary disclosure. Broad access by staff or by anyone in the district would increase the risk of harm, retaliation, or compromised investigations. If someone else needs information to respond appropriately, that access is limited and handled through designated channels under strict confidentiality.