51A Procedure
Procedure for Filing a 51-A
1. An oral report must be filed with the Department of Children and Families (DCF) immediately upon report of suspected abuse and/or neglect. Call (508)929-1000 and ask for intake and then state that you ate a mandated reporter and need to file a 51-A. It is recommended that you complete the Report of Child(ren) Alleged to be Suffering from Serious Physical or Emotional Injury by Abuse or Neglect prior to calling as you will be asked to provide all of the information that is asked for on this form. When completing this form, all information must be provided including the name and contact information (provide school address and phone number) of the mandated reporter. You must also sign the form.
2. Once the oral report has been made, you have 48 hours in which to fax or mail the written Report of Child(ren) Alleged to be Suffering from Serious Physical or Emotional Injury by Abuse or Neglect. This can be faxed to (508)929-1100 or mailed to DCF South Central Area Office 185 Church Street Whitinsville, Massachusetts 01588.
3. Please keep your original Report of Child(ren) Alleged to be Suffering from Serious Physical or Emotional Injury by Abuse or Neglect for your records, give a copy to the building principal, School Adjustment Counselor, and send a copy via interoffice mail or by email to the Director of Special Education.