Reporting Abuse | National Center to S.E.S.A.M.E.

Reporting Educator Sexual Misconduct

There’s no one right way to report. But you are not alone.

Whether the sexual misconduct happened once—or many times over months or years—reporting it can feel overwhelming. It’s okay to feel fear, stress, or uncertainty. For many survivors, not reporting can feel just as painful.

There is no universal path to justice. Every survivor’s journey is different. And while there’s no easy way, you deserve support, clarity, and compassion every step of the way.

We are here to help.

Start With Support

Before reporting to any official, we strongly recommend having emotional support from someone you trust.

This might be:

A therapist or counselor
A rape crisis center or child advocacy center
A community mental health provider
A trusted friend, family member, or survivor advocate

You don’t have to do this alone.

Where to Report—and Why It Matters

Local and State Law Enforcement

You can report abuse directly to your city, county, or state police. Most departments have trained investigators and victim advocates who understand how to handle reports of sexual abuse.

District Attorney or State Attorney’s Office

These offices handle criminal investigations and may also provide support through their victim services divisions.

Child Protection Agencies

If the victim is a minor—or was a minor at the time—reporting to your state’s child protective services is critical. They have the authority to investigate abuse and remove unsafe individuals from schools.

Please note: Schools are not equipped to conduct full abuse investigations. They are not law enforcement and often lack trained investigators or advocates.

What About Verbal or Non-Contact Harassment?

Verbal, suggestive, or “minor” boundary violations are not harmless. They are red flags.

These behaviors can signal the start of grooming—or point to deeper patterns of abuse. Even one inappropriate comment or unwanted gesture is worth reporting.

If you are a mandated reporter, the thresh hold for reporting is suspicion. If you suspect there is physical or sexual abuse, report to law enforcement immediately. If you do not suspect physical or sexual abuse, but still have concerns:

Report to your school’s Title IX Coordinator
Follow up with the highest-ranking administrator available
Contact your state’s educator misconduct office or teacher licensing board

Educators are professionals. Every student deserves to learn in an environment where boundaries are respected and enforced.

You Deserve Safety—and Accountability

A seemingly “small” violation can have a lifelong impact. If you have concerns or need help navigating the reporting process, we are here for you. Contact us for more information, or visit our FAQ.

We’ll support you in understanding your options and making the choices that are right for you.

Where to report

If you are a mandated reporter, report to the appropriate law enforcement agency and provide all necessary follow-up materials.

If you are not and have concerns:

ChildHelp National Child Abuse Hotline

1‑800‑4‑A‑CHILD (1‑800‑422‑4453)
https://www.childhelp.org
Available 24/7. Professional counselors provide crisis support, emotional care, and referrals to local agencies, with translation services in 170+ languages.

RAINN (Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network)

1‑800‑656‑HOPE (1‑800‑656‑4673)
https://www.rainn.org

Operates the nation’s largest sexual assault hotline and chat. Offers crisis counseling, legal referrals, and guidance for next steps.

State Departments of Education / Licensing Boards

Report educator misconduct directly to your state’s professional licensing or teaching board. These agencies can revoke credentials or initiate investigations. To find the board in your state, click here.

School / District / Title IX Coordinator

Each school district is required to have a designated Title IX Coordinator responsible for handling sexual misconduct complaints. Contact your school site or district office to determine who to contact.

What to Do Next

Keep records—note dates, times, and details of the incidents.
Save communications like emails, texts, or social media messages.
Bring a trusted support person or advocate when reporting.
Follow up—you have a right to know when an investigation takes place and how it’s progressing.