Teachers and the Law – Notification of Law Enforcement Agency

Whenever any school district employee is attacked, assaulted, or physically threatened by a pupil, it is the duty of the employee and the supervisor who has knowledge of the incident to promptly report the matter to the law enforcement authorities. Failure to make such a report is an infraction punishable by a fine of not more than $1,000. Any employee of any school district who attempts to impede the making of a required report is guilty of a misdemeanor and may be assessed a fine of not less than $500 or more than $1,000. Ed. Code 44014. No board, board member, or county or district employee shall impose any sanctions against a person required to make this report. Ed. Code 44014.

In case of assault with a deadly weapon or force likely to produce great bodily injury against any person, the principal is required to notify law enforcement authority prior to suspension or expulsion.

In cases of unlawful possession, use, sale, furnishing, or being under the influence of any controlled substance, alcoholic beverage or intoxicant, the principal may notify law enforcement authorities prior to suspension or expulsion.

The willful failure of a principal to make such a report is an infraction punishable by a fine to be paid by the principal of not more than $500. A principal is immune from civil or criminal liability for such report unless the report was false and the principal knew the report was false or the report was made with reckless disregard for the truth or falsity of the report.  Ed. Code 48902.

Quick Links to More Information About Teachers and the Law