This is a dance. You must hold to your parental duty to do everything in your power to save your child’s life. You must hold to your professional duty as a mandated reporter. But equally, you must, as a fellow human being, fully respect this child’s sovereignty. Both stances can be true at the same time. Holding both views simultaneously may be the thing that saves this child’s life.

In my conversations with teenagers, the one thing they consistently report that makes them want to be at school, allows them to connect with and respect a teacher, and promotes a safe school environment, is feeling validated.