Dear Colleague:
Dealing with abused and neglected children is one of the most difficult tasks
we face in our schools. Sadly, the number of abused children in our classrooms
continues at an appalling rate.
As educators, we know that children are often helpless unless a responsible
adult intervenes on their behalf. You may be the first and only person to
recognize and respond to a child’s cry for help. So it is vitally important
for you to know how to get help for your students and to protect your rights
if you have to report a case of abuse, neglect or maltreatment.
The UFT is committed to helping you handle such cases. We have designed this
publication to answer the most commonly asked questions that your colleagues
have had. It explains state and city regulations and clearly deliniates your
responsibilities as well as your principal’s responsibilities under
the law. And it describes what support and assistance you should expect from
the school system and your union when you assume the awesome task of helping
a child who may be living in an abusive environment.
To further your knowledge, the UFT is also pleased to offer you at a nominal
fee the two-hour course in child abuse detection and reporting that the state
requires. If you have not yet taken it, watch for the special course catalogue
edition of the New York Teacher in August, January and May. See the calendar
online at www.ufttc.org.
I have no doubt that you, like countless other caring UFT members, will do
your part if you suspect that children in your school are abused or neglected.
Know the regulations. Know your rights. Take action. We cannot allow one
single child to suffer if we can do anything to prevent it.
Sincerely,
Randi Weingarten, President