Thorner - BCSD Static Server - Bakersfield City School District

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT PREVENTION ANDREPORTINGAdministrative RegulationsAR 603.7Page 8 of 9To file a complaint against a District employee or other person suspected of child abuse or neglectat a school site, parents/guardians may file a report by telephone, in person or in writing with anyappropriate agency identified above under "Reporting Procedures." If a parent/guardian makes acomplaint to any District employee, that employee shall notify the parent/guardian of proceduresfor filing a complaint with the appropriate agency. The employee is also obligated to file a reporthimself/herself using the procedures described above for mandated reporters (Penal Code Sections11164-11174.3).(cf. BP 300.13 – Complaints Concerning District Employees)In addition, if the child is enrolled in special education, a separate complaint may be filed by theparent/guardian with the California Department of Education pursuant to Title 5, California Codeof Regulations Section 4650.Disciplinary ActionAny District employee accused of abusing or neglecting a student may be subject to reassignmentor a paid leave of absence pending the outcome of an investigation by the appropriate agency.If a determination is made that an employee has committed child abuse or neglect, the District maytake disciplinary action, including suspension and dismissal, in accordance with law, board policy,administrative regulations and/or collective bargaining agreements. The Superintendent ordesignee shall seek legal counsel in connection with either the suspension or dismissal of theemployee.(cf. BP 500.11 – Evaluations-Certificated and Classified Service Personnel)NotificationsThe Superintendent or designee shall provide to all new employees who are mandated reporters astatement that informs them of their status as mandated reporters, their reporting obligations underPenal Code Section 11166, and their confidentiality rights under Penal Code Section 11165. TheDistrict shall also provide these new employees with a copy of Penal Code Sections 11165.7,11166, and 11167 (Penal Code Sections 11165.7 and 11166.5).Before beginning employment, any person who will be a mandated reporter by virtue of his/herposition shall sign a statement indicating he/she has knowledge of the reporting obligations underPenal Code Section 11166 and will comply with those provisions. The signed statements shall beretained by the Superintendent or designee (Penal Code Section 11166.5).