Teacher background checks inadequate

Background checks performed on teacher are apparently inadequate, according to many. While psychological testing is something those in law enforcement must go through prior to being hired, as do priests before they enter the Catholic Church, teachers seem to get away with a mere background screening. Which, if they have not been criminally convicted, will be clean. Yet that’s not to say that they don’t have the mental orientations to commit crimes against children. The former teacher accused of raping a Patrick Henry Middle School student underwent a nationwide criminal background check, but advocates for children say more should be done to screen teachers during the hiring process. “I strongly feel that teachers should have to go through the same background screening a police officer would have to go through,” said Mike Blackwell, the police chief in Union, Ohio. His department has been involved in two cases of sex abuse involving teachers in recent years. Blackwell requires every police officer candidate to undergo a psychological exam and polygraph test, and “I have found a lot in the polygraphs,” he said. Some of the testing is designed to find out whether they have good character or tendencies toward sexually deviant behavior that might surface later. The polygraphs can cost up to $200, Blackwell said, “but if it was $500, it’s worth it in the long run considering what’s at stake.” If the state can’t afford it then surely parents would be willing to pay this fee to be more assured of their children’s safety? Blackwell is not the only place demanding change – psychological tests and more extensive background screening have been called for by parents and advocates in New Mexico and Delaware following sex abuse cases between students and school staff. There is no question that this is something that ought to be seriously considered. The safety of children is integral to any society, and the more checks on those who care for our children the better. My only question is whether this is a federal matter or can it be decided state-by-state?]]>