When opportunities arise to inquire about difficulties that students might be having at home, use them, but be prepared to respond to what students may reveal. Educators are mandated child abuse reporters, and must report incidents of child abuse to child protection.

Remember, most children want to protect their families, and they may also be very ashamed of the violence that is occurring in their homes. A kindly, open attitude on the teacher’s part is the most important quality to convey. Demonstrating that certain subjects are not "taboo" or off limits may invite children to confide in you. Educators need to find a balance between being a safe person for the child to confide in and being a mandated reporter.

Sometimes, even if a child tells you that domestic abuse is occurring, there will be nothing you can do to improve his or her situation. However, you must remember that having a safe person to talk to can make a world of difference in that child’s life. You can be that safe person by allowing them to talk, serving as an outlet for their fears and frustrations.

You may have a child in your classroom who displays warning signals that domestic violence is occurring n the home, and you may have an opportunity to speak with that child about his/her home situation.

Of course, teacher should never be placed in the role of child abuse investigators or domestic violence crisis workers, but often a teacher is the person who recognizes that a problem may exist. A teacher then must decide, if, when, and how to intervene. If child abuse is revealed, of course you will need to contact a child protection worker.

REMEMBER: Leaving does not mean safety for the battered woman and her children, so do not tell the battered woman or her children to “just leave”. Refer her to the local domestic violence and sexual assault program in your community or call our toll free hotline at 1-800-990-3877.