Summer is here, and with it comes an influx of children on campus. Accordingly, Georgia Tech reminds the campus community to be mindful of the legal obligation to report any suspected child abuse.

Summer camps — from Tech Wreck to CEISMC to sports — are just a few of Tech’s many outreach programs to minors (persons under 18 years of age). In fact, it is estimated that Georgia Tech engages with thousands of minors throughout the year – all of which underscores the importance that everyone both understands and upholds the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Policy. 

The Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Policy applies to any employee or volunteer at Georgia Tech who, through the scope of their employment or volunteer duties, knows about child abuse or has good-faith reason to suspect that someone has committed child abuse either on or off Tech’s campus. This applies to all employees and volunteers even if they don’t work directly with minors.

“Not only is reporting child abuse the right thing to do, but an employee that does not report a suspected case of abuse could personally incur legal charges,” said Mollie Mayfield, Associate Athletic Director of Administration, who facilitates a child abuse prevention program for Tech’s Athletic Association. “It is important that everyone understands that this applies to all of us; whether you work directly with minors or not.”    

The reporting procedures are straightforward and there is no liability for reporting in good-faith. If you suspect or have knowledge of an incident, immediately contact the Georgia Tech Police Department at 404.894.2500. In addition, you are required to inform your supervisor, program director or, if necessary, another Georgia Tech official. Reports made will be confidential to the extent of state law.

More information on this policy, including the Child Abuse Prevention Policy, can be found on the Policy Library website policylibrary.gatech.edu.