Why You Should Contact CPS If Your Child Is Harmed at School: A Personal Account and Guide

Dear Parents,

I know how much you want to believe in the good of schools and educators, especially when it comes to ensuring your child's safety. I understand how difficult it is to imagine that a place where your child is supposed to learn and grow could be the very place where harm happens. But if you've noticed any signs of abuse or neglect, or if your child has shared concerning details with you, please, hear me when I say: contact CPS immediately.

You might have all the evidence in the world, whether it's bruises, unusual behavior, or your child’s account of what happened—but it can still be incredibly difficult to feel confident that the school will take your concerns seriously. I want to share a personal experience in the hopes that it will help you know what to do next, what to expect, and how to ensure your child is safe.

Our Story: A Wake-Up Call

Like many of you, I never imagined I'd have to deal with something like this. But over time, I started noticing subtle signs that something wasn’t right at school. It started small—my child, who is special needs, began coming home with bruises on his arms and back. Then, we had incidents where he was thrown into a chair, a paraeducator actually knocked over a bookcase on him, and he was physically pushed and knocked down. Things got worse when he was forced to walk outside in the unbearable heat until he was completely exhausted, and when he was kept from recess or other activities that were supposed to be his time to recharge.

The list goes on. It’s hard to imagine that this could happen in an environment meant to nurture, but the reality is that it does. The most painful part? When we raised these concerns, they were brushed off—almost like they didn't matter. Teachers and staff need more support, more training, and more accountability when it comes to managing children with special education needs. This support can often be requested, but it’s not always given. If it’s not, this is what you end up with—harm, frustration, and a child who is scared of going to school.

Why CPS? Why Now?

So, why should you reach out to CPS (Child Protective Services)? Because they are in a position to launch an investigation that holds the school accountable. CPS has the authority to review things that you or the school may not have access to—such as security camera footage. They can dig deeper to verify if any harm was done, physically or emotionally, and hold the school responsible for mistreatment.

The investigation process is thorough and could include interviews with the staff, your child, and you, as well as access to security footage and documentation. And while it may be an uncomfortable process, it's the one way to ensure that your child is safe. The school can't ignore the authority of CPS.

Steps to Take: Getting CPS Involved

1. Document Everything: Before you make any call to CPS, gather your evidence. Take photos of any bruises or injuries. Write down dates, times, and any other relevant details. This documentation will help CPS understand the situation when you call.

   
   

2. Contact CPS: If you believe your child is in danger, call CPS. Depending on where you live, they may have an online portal or a phone number to call. When you contact them, be clear about your concerns. Share everything, from the physical injuries to emotional distress. If possible, mention any instances of neglect or denial of your child’s basic rights (like missing out on recess).

   
   

3. Keep Communication Open: Once you’ve made the call, be ready to stay involved. CPS will likely reach out to you to follow up and may also contact the school. Be prepared to provide as much detail as possible. They’ll want to know everything, from the timeframes to the specifics of the incidents.

   
   

4. CPS Investigation: Once CPS opens an investigation, they’ll gather evidence, interview witnesses (including teachers, staff, and sometimes other students), and review the school’s policies. They might even ask to review security camera footage. This will allow them to get a complete picture of the situation.

   
   

5. Outcomes of CPS Investigation: The outcome of a CPS investigation can vary. In some cases, the investigation might find that the school is in violation of child protection laws, which can lead to consequences like staff disciplinary action, policy changes, or even criminal charges. If the investigation clears the school, CPS will still offer guidance on how to better support your child moving forward.

   
   

The Hard Truth: Schools Must Be Held Accountable

I don’t say this lightly: the school must be held accountable. If your child has suffered harm, either physically or emotionally, because the school failed to provide the right support or training for their staff, the school must face consequences. Teachers and aides are there to teach and care for your child—not to harm them. They need training, they need support, and they need to be held responsible for their actions.

If the school won't take action when you ask, or worse, they dismiss your concerns, please consider the safety of your child above all else. I know how hard it is, but your child deserves better. You are their advocate—and sometimes, that means stepping up and calling for the intervention of an outside authority, like CPS.

In the end, our children need to feel safe in their school environments. They need to know that their voice matters, and that their parents are listening when they speak. If something is wrong, speak up, and let CPS help investigate. Together, we can make sure that no child endures harm at the hands of those who should be protecting them.

Please reach out to me if you have any questions or just need someone to talk to. You’re not alone in this journey, and I’m here to help.

With compassion and support,

Byron-Waypoint Advocates.