Division of Child Protection and Permanency (Formerly DYFS) Information Lord Stirling Community School Dr. Cesar Cabrera, Principal Mrs. Silvia Washington, Vice Principal Gabriela Rowack, Counselor

Story Natalynn Miller

Child Abuse Facts Each year, more than 3 million cases of child abuse and neglect are reported to authorities in the United States*Each year, more than 3 million cases of child abuse and neglect are reported to authorities in the United States* Average of more than 3 children per day DIE from abuse*Average of more than 3 children per day DIE from abuse* Most of the children who die are younger than six year old of age*Most of the children who die are younger than six year old of age* About one-third of abused children later abuse their own childrenAbout one-third of abused children later abuse their own children *Source: National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect*Source: National Clearinghouse on Child Abuse and Neglect

Legal Obligations NJ Statutes (NJSA 18A:36-25 and 9:6-8.10) Require reporting by school officials of a potential missing or abused child to both law enforcement officials and the DCPP

Anonymity Individuals who report abuse may or may not be entitled to anonymity. While DCPP allows anonymous child abuse reporting for the general public, school staff may not be entitled to anonymity for these reports. A school employee making a report to DCPP may request anonymity, but it may not be guaranteed.

Have a witness present when you make a report. Take notes about what was reported, and the responses from the Intake Officer who takes the report.

Notify the Principal, Nurse or School Counselor, if a report to DCPP is needed.

District Reporting Form

DCPP Hotline: NJABUSE ( ) New Brunswick Police Department

HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER WHAT I SEE OR HEAR SHOULD BE REPORTED? It is not your responsibility to investigate the incident before calling DCP&P that is the role of the DYFS worker.It is not your responsibility to investigate the incident before calling DCP&P that is the role of the DYFS worker. The definition of child abuse is broad.The definition of child abuse is broad.,

WHAT INFORMATION SHOULD I HAVE AVAILABLE WHEN CONTACTING DYFS? Who: The child and parent/caregiver’s name, age and address and the name of the alleged perpetrator and that person’s relationship to the child. What: Type and frequency of alleged abuse/neglect, current or previous injuries to the child and what caused you to become concerned. When: When the alleged abuse/neglect occurred and when you learned of it.

WHAT INFORMATION SHOULD I HAVE AVAILABLE WHEN CONTACTING DYFS? Where: Where the incident occurred, where the child is now and whether the alleged perpetrator has access to the child. How: How urgent the need is for intervention and whether there is a likelihood of imminent danger for the child.

WHAT ARE THE COMMOM SIGNS OF ABUSE? Indicators of Physical Abuse: unexplained bruises, welts, burns, lacerations, fractures, abrasions, etc.Indicators of Physical Abuse: unexplained bruises, welts, burns, lacerations, fractures, abrasions, etc. Indicators of Sexual Abuse: complaints regarding genital/anal area, sexually transmitted diseases, unusual knowledge about or preoccupation with sex.Indicators of Sexual Abuse: complaints regarding genital/anal area, sexually transmitted diseases, unusual knowledge about or preoccupation with sex. Indicators of Neglect: consistent hunger, poor hygiene, inappropriate dress, lack of supervision.Indicators of Neglect: consistent hunger, poor hygiene, inappropriate dress, lack of supervision.

Signs of Abuse Continued Indicators of emotional difficulties for which abuse may be considered may include: aggressive or withdrawn behavior, unusual fears, running away, sudden change in mood or behavior.Indicators of emotional difficulties for which abuse may be considered may include: aggressive or withdrawn behavior, unusual fears, running away, sudden change in mood or behavior.

In Closing…. When considering alleged child abuse or neglect, remember to do what is in the best interest of the child.When considering alleged child abuse or neglect, remember to do what is in the best interest of the child. Additional information and questions can always be directed to DCP&P, School Administrators, School Counselor, Social Worker and the School NurseAdditional information and questions can always be directed to DCP&P, School Administrators, School Counselor, Social Worker and the School Nurse

Questions?