A list of NAIS resources on preventing and responding to suspected educator sexual misconduct. United Educators' Independent School Resources on Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Materials to help schools protect students, including a policy and audit guide. Behaviors of Sexual Predators: Grooming: This publication from the Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault will help you understand common stages of "grooming," or the process by which a child sexual offender gains a child's (and perhaps his or her parents') trust. Five Steps to Protecting Our Children, produced by Darkness to Light (D2L). produced by Darkness to Light (D2L). D2L is an organization that offers resources and training to help educators prevent child sexual abuse. What Does Penn State Mean for Independent School Boards of Trustees and Leadership? The independent school community can take some lessons from the Penn State scandal, including how trustees need to be vigilant about their leadership responsibilities. Also see NAIS's resources on educator misconduct: Webinars on Educator Misconduct (6/17/2016) Responding to Cases of Student Sexual Abuses from the Past (5/24/2016) Being as transparent as possible and communicating thoughtfully and well builds trust in a school’s handling of reports. Guidelines for Dealing with Educator Sexual Misconduct (9/25/2015) It is every school's worst nightmare... What do you do if there is a possibility that one of your staff members has been abusing a student? This helpful document will give schools an in-depth look at wrestling with these issues. Dealing with Allegations of Sex Abuse (9/21/2015) Does your school have a plan for dealing with allegations of sexual abuse? What are your responsibilities under the law? Sexual Misconduct in Independent Schools: Minimizing Risk and Creating the Safest Possible Environment for All Community Members (7/25/2014) This legal advisory, "Sexual Misconduct at Independent Schools: Minimizing Risk and Creating the Safest Environment Possible ... " provides guidance on assessing the safety of your school environment. Crisis Response in Shifting Times: What Would We Have Done? (1/4/2012) How would your school handle a crisis? Knowing what the key steps are before such a situation arises can help save your school a lot of time and angst. Read this article for guidance.