State law requires that school system personnel be alert to any evidence of child abuse or neglect. Child abuse is defined as any physical or mental condition that is of such nature as to indicate that it has been caused by brutality, abuse or neglect. Staff members having knowledge or suspicion of any child who is suffering from abuse or neglect are required to report such harm immediately. Any reasonable suspicion of abuse must be reported to the Department of Children’s Services by calling (877) 237.0026 or (877) 542.2873 or online at https://apps.tn.gov/carat/ or https://www.tn.gov/youth/.

The person reporting is immune from liability and his/her identity remains confidential except when the court determines otherwise.