In Lily's case, who decided to report to authorities?

• A. Lily's mother
• B. The student
• C. The principal
• D. The teacher and the school nurse

Answer: (D)

In schools, certain staff are designated as mandated reporters who must notify authorities when they suspect child maltreatment. Teachers interact with students daily, notice changes in behavior or injuries, and are trained to report concerns promptly. The school nurse also reviews health issues and can recognize signs that point to abuse or neglect, making them essential reporters in these situations. When red flags appear or there is a disclosure, these professionals are expected to escalate the concern to child protective services or the appropriate authorities rather than waiting for someone else to act. That’s why, in Lily’s case, the decision to report came from the teacher and the school nurse, who have both the responsibility and the direct safety role to report suspected abuse.