Mandated Reporter of Child Abuse and Neglect

Public Act 97-0711 amends the Illinois Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act (ANCRA) to expressly make all “personnel of institutions of higher education” mandated reporters, requiring such individuals to report to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) if they have reasonable cause to believe that a child known to them in their professional or official capacity may be abused or neglected.                   

Mandated reporters are required by Illinois law to report suspected child abuse. The list includes, but is not limited to, teachers, school personnel, higher education personnel, doctors, child care workers, law enforcement officers, social workers, and social service administrators.  Child Abuse and Neglect Reports are made by calling the Department of Child and Family Services (DCFS) Hotline at 1-800-252-2873 or 1-800-25ABUSE.                   

As an employee or volunteer of City Colleges of Chicago, you are a required to report suspected child abuse immediately to DCFS when you have “reasonable cause to believe” that a child known to you in your professional or official capacity may be an abused or neglected child.” (ANCRA Sec.4)                   

As a condition of employment, you are required to complete the Acknowledgement of Mandated Reporter Status form and complete any necessary training to comply with reporting requirements under the Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act. All CCC employees sign acknowledgment form with new hire paperwork. ​                  

For more information, please visit the DCFS website at www.state.il.us/dcfs​​.