Encourages school health educators to include a unit on child abuse and neglect as a component of the health education curriculum, noting the current lack of attention to the subject, describing the magnitude of the problem, and explaining how early intervention can limit the damage. The paper likens such education to secondary prevention, a…

Discusses the legal, professional, and ethical duties of teachers who suspect the maltreatment or neglect of children. Presents statistical evidence that indicates that teachers are not fulfilling their duties with respect to detecting and reporting suspected abuse. Considers the implications for educational policy as it affects teachers. (JS)

Discusses the role of school principals and school boards in developing policies in the following areas in order to inform faculty members of their duty to report suspected cases of abuse: (1) child-abuse reporting procedures; (2) educational and training programs; and (3) community linkage mechanisms. (JS)