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Mandated Reporter Information for �School Volunteers

2020-2021

O.C.G.A. § 19-7-5

and

GA Code Ann., § 19-7-5

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2012 Criminal Justice Reform Act

As of July 1, 2012:

All employees & volunteers working within a school or organization who work directly with children are now mandatory reporters.

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Reporting Requirements

  • Reports must be made immediately, but no later than within 24 hours when there is reasonable cause of any suspected abuse. Call 1-855-422-4453, 24 hours per day/ 7 days per week. Please notify school nurse, school counselor, or school social worker if suspicion of abuse was initiated while volunteering in the school system.
  • Penalty for failure to report, if convicted, is a misdemeanor which could carry a fine and possible jail time.

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What do I do if I suspect abuse?

  • If a child talks to you about abuse or you have suspicion of abuse:
    • Do NOT ask any questions
    • Thank them for being brave enough to tell you
    • Tell them that it is not their fault
    • Tell them that you must share this with another trusted adult
    • If you are on a field trip, please notify the teacher or coach. If you are in the school volunteering, please notify the school counselor or school nurse. If school counselor or nurse is not available, please talk to an administrator.

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What if I’m wrong?

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  • There is only harm in NOT telling…..

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  • Immunity is provided to reporters when the report was made in good faith and with concern for the child’s well being.

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