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Volunteer Child Safety Training
Mandated Reporter training and reporting for Bayside volunteers

Protecting the children and students at Bayside is a responsibility we all share. Most volunteers are not Mandated Reporters under California law, but the training is still required by law. California Business and Professions Code section 18975 requires every regular volunteer who serves with children or students, meaning anyone 18 or older with more than 16 hours a month or 32 hours a year of direct contact with them, to complete training in identifying and reporting child abuse and neglect. Every volunteer should know what to do if they ever suspect a child is being abused or neglected. Check your training status below, upload your proof of training, and read what to do if you ever need to report.

Status

Your Training Status

Mandated Reporter Training Status
If you would like to check your mandated reporter status, please sign in.
If You Need to Report

If You Ever Suspect Abuse or Neglect

Volunteers are not mandated reporters under California law, but you still play a critical role. If you ever suspect a child is being abused or neglected, tell a Bayside staff member or your ministry leader right away. They will take it from there and make sure the report is filed with the appropriate authorities. You do not need to be certain, and you do not need to investigate. A reasonable suspicion is enough.

Can't reach a staff member, or the situation is urgent?
You can always contact Child Protective Services or your local police or sheriff's department directly. Anyone may report suspected abuse, and you never need permission to do so. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
A note for staff and other Mandated Reporters
If California law designates you a Mandated Reporter, the duty to report is yours and telling a supervisor does not satisfy it. You must make an initial report by phone to Child Protective Services or a police or sheriff's department immediately or as soon as practicably possible, then send a written follow-up within 36 hours on the official Suspected Child Abuse Report (BCIA 8572) form. Please also let a Bayside staff member know so we can support you and the child.