Who is the designated authority for reporting within a school?

• A. Designated child protection officer
• B. School counselor
• C. School board member
• D. School janitor

Answer: (A)

In a school, the person designated to handle reporting of safety concerns and suspected abuse is the designated child protection officer. This role is tasked with receiving reports, ensuring mandated reporting requirements are followed, and coordinating with child protective services or local authorities. Having a specific point of contact helps reports be handled quickly, confidentially, and in line with district policies. While a school counselor provides support to students, they aren’t the formal reporting authority; a school board member oversees policy, and a janitor may notice concerns but isn’t the designated official for reporting.