Abuse | Child Abuse | Child Abuse in an Educational Setting

As of January 2024, Social Services Law Section 413 was amended to require additional training within the New York State Mandated Identification and Reporting of Child Abuse and Maltreatment/Neglect coursework that includes protocols to reduce implicit bias in decision-making processes, strategies for identifying adverse childhood experiences, and guidelines to assist in recognizing signs of abuse or maltreatment while interacting virtually. 

The law requires that all mandated reporters, including classroom teachers, educational administrators, and pupil personnel service providers (RN/LPN), complete the updated training curriculum by April 1, 2025. 

For questions or assistance with the training, please contact the Human Services Learning Center (HSLC). 
M-F 8 a.m - 4 p.m. 1-800-413-3210 or HSLCSupport@hslcnys.org 

Mandated Training for Identification and Reporting of Child Abuse in New York State

OCFS Self-Directed Online Training Course
The New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) training course was updated to satisfy the requirements (listed above) and covers the roles and responsibilities as a mandated reporter for suspected Child Abuse.

NYSED Office of Teaching Initiatives 
This site offers a list of approved training providers.

Updated Mandated Reporter Training Requirements  

NYSED Resources

Child Abuse/Neglect Resources 

Child Abuse Identification & Reporting
Lists approved providers of training

Mandated Training Related to Child Abuse

NYS Office of Children and Family Services Resources

Mandated Reporter Resource Center
This site offers resources for NYS mandated reporters, training, information on laws, and FAQs.

Prevention Services
The (Help, Empower, Advocate, Reassure, and Support) HEARS Family Line assists parents and families by providing resources and referrals to a variety of services. Caring representatives guide families to services including food, clothing, housing, medical and behavioral health care services, parenting education and child care. 1-888-554-3277 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The line offers messages in 12 languages. Additional protective factors are available to provides strategies to strengthen families.

Child Protective Services
This page includes information on the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR, also known as the “hotline”) for reports made pursuant to the Social Services Law.  

Report of Suspected Child Abuse or Maltreatment (LDSS-2221A)
The LDSS-2221A form is to be completed and filed with the appropriate local CPS. Mandated reporters may request the address of the investigative district from the SCR’s child protective specialist at the time of the oral report to the SCR. The form is available in multiple languages.

Summary Guide for Mandated Reporters in NYS
Provides mandated reporters with an overview of their obligations and some basic information about the New York State Child Protective Services (CPS) system.

SAY NO! Protecting Children Against Sexual Abuse
Webpage with publications and information on how to discuss sexual abuse with children. 

Recognizing & Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect
Brochure that includes questions often asked by friends, neighbors, and relatives.

Other Resources

Child Welfare Information Gateway
Childwelfare.gov provides publications, research, and learning tools to support thriving children, youth, families, and communities. Printed and electronic publications, websites, databases, and online learning tools, including resources that can be shared with families.

See Also:

Page Updated 1/3/25