As teachers, what exactly do you have to report?

Question

I know that teachers are required to report cases such as abuse to DCS, etc. Which things do you have to report? Im not quite sure about this situation in specific.

After my best friend killed herself in eighth grade I became very depressed and I struggled with self-injury until halfway through my junior year. I'm better now, I haven't cut or burned myself in a long time and I'm pretty sure that I've beat it out. But I still have scars all over my arms and my legs..and I think that my teacher suspects something, because I saw her staring at my arms the other day and after class she pulled me aside and asked me if I was okay-I told her I was but I don't think she believed me. I don't want her to be concerned, so I just want to tell her that I used to have a problem but I'm okay now. But if I told her that, would she be required to report me? Because my parents can't know..I dont even want to think about what they'll do if they find out.

Could you please answer both ?s :] Thanks.

Answer 1

She's seen it and she's talked to you about it, so you know she's proably at least going to be keeping a closer eye on you for sings of problems.  If you trust this teacher, tell her that you used to harm yourself, but you haven't in a long time.  Tell her that you're worried about your parents finding out.  You could offer to speak with the counselor if it will make her feel better.  (And it might actually help.)

Good luck.

Answer 2

Teachers are very concerned about students' well being. When students open up and speak to teachers,  teachers will listen to you with open mind and they will only report if things concerns life and death matter.

Otherwise they can keep secrets too, but if you keep giving signals that u have been causing self infliction, they can still report it to your parents.

Like i said teachers are very concerned beings. Talk to teacher and tell her exactly what was going on and she will understand that u are doing fine and if your grades are also ok and not affected. They will not report it.

Answer 3

Honestly I do not know because I am not a teacher.

I just wanted to let you know that I can empathize with you (having also lost friends along the way) and am glad to hear you're better now.  Off topic:  Kind of odd that teachers and others notice things that parents should've picked up on already.

I hope you find the answers you are looking for.

Answer 4

If you feel safe and comfortable with that teacher, go ahead and explain yourself and situation to her/him. ONLY IF YOU FEEL SAFE. You are not required to explain yourself.

I am an education student and have come across many teens/kids that have had problems. The teacher must report past or current abuse, or if they feel the child is in danger.

If you talk to him/her and let them know that you are safe and happy, they have no reason to report you. Sometimes, talking to a teacher you respect can help out too. That what they are there for.

Everything should be fine as long as you assure them that the wounds were self inflicted in the past, and you have healed yourself.

Answer 5

Your teacher is concerned if she suspects abuse,but if you do not wish to share it with her ,that is your choice,however if your schoo; work is affect she may continue to ask you. I sugges tthat you be honest with your teacher and convience her that you are fine and that you do not want her to worry about it.