EAST LANSING, Mich. — Teachers, pastors, dentists and others who work with children are required by Michigan law to report suspected abuse or neglect – yet many professionals are unclear on their specific responsibilities or how the process works.
A first-of-its-kind series of pamphlets from Chance at Childhood – a joint program of the Michigan State University School of Social Work and College of Law – provides clear, succinct guidance for each group of mandated reporters.
A full-color pamphlet for physicians was completed recently and is available to doctors statewide. About 10,000 copies of the initial pamphlet – for teachers and school administrators – have been distributed in the past year.
The pamphlets are free and also can be downloaded from www.chanceatchildhood.msu.edu (click on “Publications, Education and Conferences”).
Future pamphlets will target nurses, clergy, social workers and other professionals, said Gary Anderson, director of the School of Social Work. The plan is to distribute a total of about 10 specifically themed pamphlets – one every six months.
“What we’re trying to do is to provide accurate information that’s easily accessible, clear and practical so professionals can use it when they need that information most,” Anderson said.
In addition to summarizing Michigan’s 1975 Child Protection Law, the pamphlets describe common indicators of abuse and neglect; outline the oral and written report process required by law; and include contact information for the Department of Human Services and a host of support groups and agencies.
Among the specifics discussed in the pamphlets:
- Failing to file a report of suspected abuse or neglect is a misdemeanor punishable by up to 93 days in jail and a $500 fine.
- Notifying your supervisor does not satisfy your legal obligation to file a report with DHS.
- Filing a report in good faith, means you cannot be held liable to any person for any damages they may suffer. You also are immune from any criminal liability.
The pamphlets are crafted by the Chance at Childhood staff: Joseph Kozakiewicz, director; Kimberly Steed, education program coordinator/clinical instructor; and Delanie Pope, staff attorney.
The content is prepared in conjunction with professionals in the field, Anderson said. Pediatricians from MSU’s College of Human Medicine, for example, helped with the physician’s pamphlet.
The pamphlets are inspired by the dedication and donation of Judith Mynsberge, a classroom teacher for 32 years, and Marcie Schalon, an MSU alumna and retired social worker. A federal grant is supporting printing costs.
Listen to a podcast with Anderson at: http://spartanpodcast.com/?p=345.
###
Michigan State University has been advancing knowledge and transforming lives through innovative teaching, research and outreach for more than 150 years. MSU is known internationally as a major public university with global reach and extraordinary impact. Its 17 degree-granting colleges attract scholars worldwide who are interested in combining education with practical problem solving.