Case
Teacher

teacher in a new community struggles with whether or not a family's disciplinary choices constitute abuse. And - if she does indeed think that one of her students is being abused - is calling a dysfunctional DCS going to make things better for the student?

Solution #1
ALWAYS call DCF if you think a child is being abused.
Solution #2
It is very important for a teacher to call the DCF/CPS/whatever organization if they have reason to suspect a child is being abused. If the teacher feels unsure if it constitutes abuse they may want to get a second opinion from someone else, such as a coworker.
Solution #3
In many states, teachers have a legal requirement to report suspected abuse.