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Report Abuse, Neglect, and Misconduct

Overview 

Texas law requires concerns related to child abuse, neglect, human trafficking, or educator misconduct to be reported through appropriate channels. How and where a concern must be reported depends on the type of issue and the role of the person reporting. School professionals have specific legal reporting duties, and parents, students, and community members also play an important role in raising concerns and filing complaints. This page explains the reporting options available and outlines what to expect when a report or complaint is made to TEA.

Reporting Child Abuse or Neglect

Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect should make a report. Reporting helps ensure student safety and allows appropriate agencies to respond quickly.

Emergency Situations

Call 911 if a child is in immediate danger.

Non-Emergency Situations

Suspected abuse or neglect should be reported to the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS):

  • Online: Texas Abuse Hotline
  • By phone: 1‑800‑252‑5400
    (Recommended when the situation is urgent or details are unclear)

Suspected Human Trafficking

If you suspect human trafficking:

Additional Requirements for School Professionals (Mandated Reporters)

School professionals and other mandated reporters have a legal obligation to report suspected child abuse or neglect.

  • Reports must be made directly to DFPS or law enforcement
  • A supervisor’s review, approval, or internal notification does not satisfy the law
  • For reporting purposes, “law enforcement” refers to state‑recognized agencies and does not include school district or charter school police departments

Failing to report as required by law may result in criminal or professional consequences.

Reporting Educator Misconduct 

Concerns about educator misconduct may be reported by school staff or by members of the public.

Responsibilities of School Staff

Educators who become aware of possible misconduct have legal reporting responsibilities. As part of those responsibilities:

  • School staff are expected to notify appropriate campus and district leadership.
  • Internal notification alone does not satisfy state law and does not replace required reporting to external authorities.
  • Depending on the situation, required reports may need to be made to TEA, DFPS, or law enforcement.

Examples of Reportable Misconduct

Examples include, but are not limited to:

  • Boundary violations or grooming behaviors
  • Inappropriate communication with students
  • Romantic or sexual conduct
  • Physical abuse, threats, or intimidation
  • Illegal drug activity
  • Fraud, cheating, or testing irregularities

Filing a Misconduct Complaint with TEA  

Parents, students, school staff, and community members may file a complaint with TEA to raise concerns about educator conduct or other education‑related issues. Filing a complaint with TEA does not replace any required report to DFPS or law enforcement.

Before You File

  • Use the Parent Complaint Navigator to answer a short set of multiple‑choice questions that help identify the appropriate next steps for your specific concern.
  • Review TEA’s guidance to understand what information is required before submitting a complaint.

Who May File

Anyone may file a complaint, including:

  • Parents or guardians
  • Students
  • School staff
  • Community members

Complaint Requirements

A complaint must include:

  • A written statement
  • Facts describing the alleged conduct
  • The complainant’s contact information
  • An indication of a potential violation of law or rule

How to File

Complaints must be submitted through the TEA Complaint Form. 

After a Complaint is Submitted

TEA reviews the information to determine appropriate next steps, which may include one or more of the following actions:

  • Referring the matter to DFPS
  • Coordinating with law enforcement
  • Initiating an educator certification investigation
  • Notifying district officials
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