As leaders of the organization representing the K-12 principals of Rhode Island, we are compelled to offer an alternative perspective on Arlene Violet’s commentary (“Child abuse reporting …
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As leaders of the organization representing the K-12 principals of Rhode Island, we are compelled to offer an alternative perspective on Arlene Violet’s commentary (“Child abuse reporting has to be taken seriously”) concerning how principals react to child abuse suspicions or allegations.
To state that “principals have disincentives to report abuse” is simply disingenuous. Using broad strokes to paint a picture of principals purposely turning a “blind eye” to a serious offense such as child abuse because of loyalty to union members is inaccurate and absurd.
Equally unfair is to claim that principals are leery of reporting because it would reflect negatively on their leadership ability.
The reality is that at times unfortunate situations arise in a school community. The role of the principal is to proactively expose and eliminate harmful behavior and do all that is necessary to create and maintain a safe, stable and welcoming environment for students.
It should be noted and recognized that principals and teachers in Rhode Island work diligently each and every day to educate students, while also doing all possible to provide for the physical safety and emotional security of each student. It is also very clear that most would never let anything stand in the way of taking any actions necessary to preserve and protect the safety and security of each student.
Thus, to be fair, principals should not be chastised for allegedly placing past loyalties or fear of criticism above the welfare of students in need. Let’s recognize that a prodigious number are doing their job and complying with the mandated reporting legislation as intended, both in spirit and word. Principals are not omniscient, as Ms. Violet recognizes, but on a daily basis do all that is humanly possible to foster student achievement in a safe and secure environment.
We are not interested in stirring your sympathy, but instead creating clear and concise protocols for educators to define abuse, report harmful situations, apply common sense, and best serve all those under the umbrella of their school communities.
Tara McAuliffe
President - Board of Directors
Rhode Island Association of School Principals