Unauthorized person

SOP: Unauthorized or Incapacitated Person

Who:

• Front desk personnel

• Classroom teachers

• Director or Assistant Director

• Parent/Guardian(s)

• Emergency contacts

• Law enforcement (if needed)

When:

• Any time an unauthorized individual attempts to pick up a child

• Any time a person appears to be under the influence, impaired, or otherwise incapacitated

• Any time there is a custody concern or court-ordered restriction on pickup

What:
To protect the safety of children by ensuring they are only released to authorized, capable individuals.

Procedure:

1. Verification of Identity:

   • Ask for photo ID of anyone attempting to pick up a child.

   • Compare ID with the list of authorized individuals provided by the parent/guardian.

2. Authorization Check:

   • If the person is not listed as authorized, do not release the child.

   • Call the parent immediately for verification.

   • Document the parent’s response and decision.

3. Incapacitation or Suspicion of Impairment:

   • If the person appears impaired (e.g., under the influence of drugs/alcohol), do not release the child.

   • Inform the parent/guardian and request they or an emergency contact come immediately.

   • If the person insists, notify the Director immediately and, if necessary, call the police for assistance.

4. Court Orders or Restrictions:

   • If a person is legally restricted (e.g., due to custody orders), inform them they are not authorized.

   • Document the incident, including any communication attempts and behaviors.

   • Call law enforcement if the individual refuses to leave or becomes aggressive.

5. Unable to Reach a Parent:

   • Call listed emergency contacts.

   • If no one can be reached or arrives within a reasonable time, notify local law enforcement or child protective services as required.

6. Documentation:

   • Complete an incident report including date, time, names, actions taken, and witness statements.

   • Submit report to the Director and file it securely.