blue, since your friend really can't tell you whether or not cps was called then i'd definitely go ahead and call them. better safe than sorry. i think you'll really regret it if you don't call and later find out they weren't notified promptly. i do think it's best to not wait and call now while this is currently being dealt with so you are sure it will all be handled appropriately. this needs to be dealt with by professionals trained in these things. i'm guessing timing is important too so if there is adult-child abuse going on people don't have time to craft cover-up stories. i don't know how much good a school can really do if everyone is just in denial and says nothing is going on. they might be likely to drop the matter. i know this is difficult but the safety of these children is at stake and you need to make sure they are being protected.