Human trafficking is a form of child abuse. School staff and district personnel are required by the Texas Education Agency (TEA) to follow a series of protocols, including mandatory training, mandatory reporting requirements, and educating staff and students on prevention and awareness. Texas law mandates that you report suspected human trafficking to district police, local or state law enforcement, and the Department of Family and Protective Services within 24 hours.

TEA created a Texas School Leaders Guide to Child Abuse, Neglect, Misconduct, and Human Trafficking Prevention and Mandatory Reporting Requirements. This guide assists school personnel in understanding their legal responsibilities in complying with child protection legislation.