Responsible Reporting Policy
One of the core values outlined in our current Vision, Mission, and Values statement is integrity. Within the meaning of this value is the need to do the right thing. No one should feel threatened or scared to report any incident that they feel may be wrong. Safety on campus, especially the safety of minors, is everyone’s responsibility. If such incidents are not reported, little can be done to help the victims or to prevent additional members of our College community from becoming victims.
Keuka College’s policies can be found on the shared drive under the human resources folder. These policies cover standards of conduct and response to harassment (sexual and otherwise), and clearly indicate prohibited behaviors such as those chronicled in the news media. The policies also unequivocally state that such acts are not tolerated and are subject to disciplinary action. In addition, the College has a “whistleblower” policy, which is designed to protect those who are reluctant or feel constrained to report matters due to fears of retribution or retaliation.
New York state law requires the report of child abuse and neglect (Soc. Serv. Law § 413). A report is required when there is reasonable cause to suspect that a child has been abused or maltreated. This is mandated for all school officials including, but not limited to, teachers and administrators. Further, Section §414 requires reporting by any other person who has reasonable cause to suspect that a child is being abused or maltreated. There is also legislation before the state legislature to clarify and expand the classifications of people covered by mandated reporting law. The New York state hotline is 1-800-342-3720 and is generally found on the first page/table of contents of the phone directory.
We encourage all members of the campus community to familiarize themselves with these policies and the New York state law. In addition to all New York state reporting mandates, all employees and students of the College who become aware of, or suspect, child abuse and/or neglect should immediately report such abuse or neglect to their supervisors as well as to local law enforcement authorities. These are troubling issues, but with education—and a clear sense of our moral and legal requirements—we can address them head-on. We welcome your participation in this effort.