Mandated reporters are an integral part of the protection of children in the District of Columbia. Individuals who frequently work with children are often the first adults to see signs of child abuse or neglect. The nature of their child friendly professions makes them uniquely qualified to protect children from maltreatment. Individuals in those professions are mandated reporters because they are legally mandated to report child abuse and neglect.
Professions that are Mandated Reporters
District of Columbia Law identifies the following specific professions as mandated reporters:
- Athletic Coaches
- Child and Family Services Agency Employees, Agents and Contractors
- Chiropractors
- Day Care Workers
- Department of Parks and Recreation Employees
- Dentists
- Domestic Violence Counselors
- Law Enforcement Officers
- Licensed Practical Nurses and Registered Nurses
- Medical Examiners
- Mental Health Professionals
- Physicians
- Psychologists
- Persons involved in the care and treatment of patients
- School Officials
- Social Service Workers
- Public Housing Resident Managers
- Teachers
Free Online Training Available
To take the free online training for mandated reporters in the District of Columbia, visit the DC Mandated Reporter website. After you complete this training, you should be able to:
- Understand your legal obligations as a mandated reporter
- Define the types of child abuse and neglect
- Recognize signs of child abuse and neglect
- Identify groups of children who may be at a higher risk for abuse or neglect
- Learn how to respond to a child who discloses abuse or neglect
- Know how to prepare for and make a report of child abuse/neglect
- Understand the process that occurs after a report is made
During the distance learning period for schools in the District of Columbia, CFSA has produced the following materials for educators to reference as they virtually assess student safety and determine when to place a call to the CFSA child abuse and neglect hotline.