NOTICES TO SCHOOLS

California law requires law enforcement agencies to notify a school district or private school within 10 days of a child's disappearance. The notice is required to be given in writing with a copy of a photograph if available. (See California Education Code Section 49068.6.)

A school must place a copy of the notice in the front of each missing child's school record that the child has been reported missing. If the school receives an inquiry or request from any person or entity for information about the missing child, they are to notify the investigating law enforcement agency immediately.

Principals of public or private elementary schools are urged to check to see if the child being enrolled or transferring into their school resembles a child listed as missing by the Department of Justice. (See California Education Code Section 49068.5.)