In the Interest of R. S. T.

Boggs, Judge.

The mother of R. S. T. appeals from the juvenile court’s order finding the child deprived.1 Because the Department has failed to present clear and convincing evidence of the present deprivation of R. S. T., we reverse.

A deprived child is defined as a child who “[i]s without proper parental care or control, subsistence, education as required by law, or other care or control necessary for the child’s physical, mental, or emotional health or morals.” OCGA § 15-11-2 (8) (A).

In determining whether a child is deprived, the court focuses on the needs of the child rather than parental…