This course provides participants with essential knowledge and skills to recognize, respond to, and prevent abuse and emotional distress in students. Participants will learn to identify indicators of physical, emotional, sexual, and substance abuse, as well as commercial sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of minors. The course addresses recognition, initial screening, and appropriate responses to student emotional or behavioral distress, including signs of possible substance abuse and violence. Content also explores the impact of abuse on student learning and behavior, the professional responsibilities of educators in reporting suspected abuse, and strategies for assisting students who are victims of abuse. In addition, participants will examine effective methods for teaching students about abuse prevention and fostering safe, supportive learning environments.

Educators, nurses, social workers, and others are mandated by law to report abuse and neglect; therefore, they need a clear understanding of the problem, definitions and physical/behavioral indicators. Completion of this training fulfills state requirements outlined in RCW 28A.410.035 and meets the following Washington Administrative Code (WAC) provisions:

• WAC 181-79A-200
• WAC 181-78A-232
• WAC 181-78A-700
• WAC 181-77A-165

Issues of Abuse training will be conducted virtually. Zoom link will be provided via email a day prior to the training.