FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What action should a teacher take upon observing signs of possible neglect in a student?

1. Speak to the student privately

2. Contact administrative personnel and follow procedure for reporting suspected neglect

3. Call the student's parents for clarification

4. Ignore the situation

The correct answer is: Contact administrative personnel and follow procedure for reporting suspected neglect

When a teacher observes signs of possible neglect in a student, it is crucial to prioritize the student's safety and well-being. Reporting suspected neglect is not only a professional responsibility but often a legal requirement. By contacting administrative personnel and adhering to the established procedures for reporting, the teacher ensures that the situation is handled appropriately and that the necessary steps are taken to protect the child. This action involves involving professionals who are trained to investigate such matters, which is essential for addressing potential harm. Speaking to the student privately may seem compassionate, but it can inadvertently place the child in a situation where they feel pressured to disclose sensitive information. This could also compromise the integrity of any potential investigation. Calling the student's parents for clarification may lead to conflict and is generally not appropriate when there are concerns about neglect, as it could endanger the student if the parents are involved in the neglect. Ignoring the situation is not only irresponsible but could also have dire consequences for the student's welfare. Therefore, following the procedure for reporting suspected neglect is the correct and most responsible course of action.