Handle With Care for Schools

  • When a child is exposed to violence or trauma, a law enforcement officer or CPS worker will contact the identified school personnel (superintendent’s office, principal or counselor) who will take the initial information (Handle With Care Notice).
  • The superintendent’s office, principal or counselor will then ensure notification is provided to appropriate teacher(s).
  • Teachers will observe child’s behavior/academic performance and utilize trauma sensitive interventions as appropriate.
  • If child exhibits problems (emotional/behavioral/academic, etc.), the teacher will refer the child to the school counselor.
  • The school counselor will assess the child’s needs to determine if counseling/services are needed and make a recommendation to the parent/guardian.
  • The counselor or social worker will refer the caregiver/child for follow-up services as deemed appropriate.
  • The school will attempt to obtain written consent from the parent/guardian for care providers and school staff to communicate about the best interest of the child.
  • School to provide trauma sensitive training to ALL school employees. A process will be developed to alert appropriate school staff of the child’s exposure to violence.
  • School to provide space for specialized trauma therapist.
  • Quarterly Defending Childhood Initiative Team Meeting.
      At least quarterly, key DCI stakeholders will review and evaluate DCI and make recommendations for improvement as necessary.
    • Law Enforcement
    • School
    • Advocates
    • Counselors
  • Case workers
  • Community partners
  • Parents
  • Others

The Team will assess the following to determine the effectiveness of DCI: academic achievements; truancies; and disciplinary reports. The meeting will not focus on specific cases.

Download our Handle With Care School Poster

  • Flyer 8.5 x 11
  • Poster 11 x 17