Many required to get child abuse clearances, except school board members

(Harrisburg) — Nearly everyone who works or volunteers in Pennsylvania public schools has to get what’s known as a child abuse clearance, but the key phrase is “nearly everyone”.

There’s one notable group that doesn’t need child abuse clearances – school board members.

“So I think if you just mention school board and we know that everyone and it’s a good thing have heightened awareness around this issue, most would assume that, but that really is not what the law says,” says Angela Liddle, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Family Support Alliance.

Some argue board members rarely come in contact with children, so there’s no immediate need for checking their criminal background.

It’s important to note if a board member also volunteers with the district, he or she is required to get clearance in that case.

“What we need to remember is that the law really gives what is the baseline and minimum requirement. But certainly we encourage folks and organizations to be prudent, and if they do more than that, then we think that’s great,” adds Liddle.

Liddle says clearances are important, but so is establishing a culture of training and open communication.

The state law expanding the clearance mandate resulted in weeks-long backlogs, but the wait is reportedly shorter now.